Ronald Shannon Thomas

Ronnie S. Thomas passed away Saturday with his family by his side. He was loved by his family as a man of great character, an inspirational father, a dear friend and good neighbor. He was blessed to call Oconee home since his birth and enjoyed time with his family, friends and neighbors.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his bride of fifty-eight years, Mina Phillips Thomas, his mother and father, Shannon Hallmark and Edith Parsons Thomas, and two grandchildren. He leaves behind a daughter, Hope Thomas; a son, Wayde Thomas, and his bride, Carolyn; as well as brothers, Harry Thomas, and his wife, Rita; Alan Thomas, and his wife, Ann; and a sister, Janet Decker, and her husband, Billy. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.
Ronnie served in multiple capacities with Ivy-Coile Motors and Barrett Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep, while he enjoyed his thirty-six years as a driver for the Oconee County School System, where he also drove children to many educational and sporting events. Prior to this, he owned a dealership in Athens and in his later years, he enjoyed time working on his farm land where he harvested hay.
Lord and Stephens Funeral Home will handle arrangements with visitation scheduled Wednesday, March 22, from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at Lord and Stephens West Chapel, located at 1211 Jimmy Daniel Rd, Bogart, GA 30622, telephone 706-549-3342, with a private service scheduled for his family and close friends Thursday, March 23, at Elder Cemetery on Georgia Highway 15 south of Watkinsville.
In lieu of flowers or meals, the family respectfully requests considering donations to the Oconee Food for Kids program, 12 Durham Street, P.O. Box 149, Watkinsville, GA 30677-0004, telephone 706-769-4974 or sharing a hot meal and visit with a shut-in neighbor.
Friends may send written condolences to Hope, Carolyn and Wayde Thomas at 1243 Jerusalem Road or 1070 Jerusalem Road, Watkinsville, GA 30677-3696.