He attended school at Drew Central in Monticello, and served in the Meteorological Squadron of the United States Navy. He was retired from Arkansas Best Freight, was a member of Bethel Baptist Church, and a 32nd degree Mason of Eureka Lodge #40 F & AM.
He was preceded in death by the light and love of his life, Nina Griffith Thomas. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Grady Thomas, of Bonham, Texas and Marvin Thomas, of Orange, Texas and a sister, Aileen Leonard, of Monticello, Arkansas.
He is survived by, his son, Danny Thomas, of Monticello; three daughters, Claudia Griffith of Colorado, Carolyn (CJ) Tanner, of Hot Springs Village, and Janis Smith, of Malvern; his sister, Virgie Campbell, of Longview, Texas; nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, and other relatives. He had many true friends, and will be greatly missed.
Condolences(8)
Bryan and Jan Stephenson
Monticello, AR Monday, June 17, 2013 So sorry to hear of your loss. Gilbert, Nina, Steve, and Lily are together again! Hope there's some fishing going on! They always had fun together and I'm sure they are again. Our prayers are with your family!Barbara Burks McElroy
Monticello, AR Friday, June 14, 2013 Carolyn, I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I know you loved him dearly. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this time.Debra Kelly
Denver, CO Friday, June 14, 2013 I'm so very sorry that your wonderful dad passed away. I know that you loved him so and will miss him. I pray for your peace and comfort through this hard time.SUSIE CHADWICK
WILMAR, AR Friday, June 14, 2013 C J, JANIS AND CLAUDIA, PLEASE KNOW THAT MY HEART IS BREAKING FOR YOU. MR GILBERT WAS ONE OF THE FINEST MEN I HAVE EVER KNOWN. MAY GOD WRAP HIS ARMS AROUND YOU ALL AND COMFORT YOU AT THIS TIME.Nolan and Aurelia Pennington
Fayetteville, AR Friday, June 14, 2013 We have memories of growing up together with Gilbert in New Hope, Drew County, AR. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.James & Mary Lasiter
Wilmar, AR Thursday, June 13, 2013 Our Deepest sympathy to the family.Janis Smith
Malvern, AR Thursday, June 13, 2013 Hi Daddy,I am going to miss you so much, but I am glad you are not suffering any longer, and I am overjoyed that you are with Mama. I know how much you loved her and how much you have missed her. I have no doubt she was waiting to take your hand when you passed through Heaven's door.
I love you so much and appreciate your being our Daddy since we were 4, 5 and 6, and raising us like we were your own.
Goodbye Daddy, til it's my time to come to you and Mama.
Gary & Kay Crook
Monticello, AR Thursday, June 13, 2013 I worked with Gilbert Thomas in the 1970;s andearly 80's at ABF Freight Systems in Monticello.
I was the operartios mgr for ABF and Gilbert
worked with me for about 10 yeqrs until ABF
moved away. Gilbert always had the best interest
iin mind when it came to his work, and was a
good friend as well. Gilbert will be missed .
Gary Crook