Apostle Alfred Thomas, Sr. Obituary (1934

Apostle Alfred Thomas Sr, 83, of Kenbridge, VA., went home to be with the Lord, Jesus Christ on Saturday, December 16, 2017 at Springs Memorial Hospital in Lancaster, S.C. holding hands with his beloved daughter Zina. Alfred was born and raised in Stamford, CT., on November 28, 1934, son of the late Quinton and Marie Thomas. He was educated in the Stamford Public School System, after which he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served the majority of his enlistment playing drums in a military band and playing for audiences all of over Europe. Forced to return to the "states" he threw his cymbals in the Thames river and never played again. After leaving the service the Apostle furthered his education at the Bell and Howell school and the Devry Technical Institute where he studied electronics. The Lord spoke to his mother many years ago to start a church. She went to a local minister and spoke to him about becoming pastor. He in turn asked her to ask people to commit themselves in supporting a new church. As a result of her efforts one of the largest churches in Stamford was formed (Faith Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church). Thomas felt the mantle was passed on to him and 1976 Thomas received Jesus as his Lord and Savior. He enrolled at the United Christian International Bible Institute in Cleveland, TN., and in 1985 received an Honorary Doctorate degree. He and his wife founded the Stamford United Christian Church which they pastored for almost 30 years. Thomas retired from the Connecticut Transit after spending approximately 25 years in their employ. In 1957 He married the love of his life Carrie L. Ellis, of Kenbridge, and together they had 3 children: Alfred Thomas Jr (wife Helen), Maxine Lawanda Thomas, Zina McIlwain (husband Matthew). 10 grandchildren: Jaron Thomas, Stephen Armistead (wife Katie), David Armistead (wife Nancy), Evyette Waters, Jenette Waters, Nekia Tanner, Alfred Thomas III, Ashley Thomas, Precious McIlwain, Ieashia McIlwain, and 6 great-grandchildren: Briana Waters, Aamya Anderson, Andrew Scott, Draya Scott, David Armistead Jr., and Olivia Armistead. Thomas was predeceased by his daughter Maxine, and his two brothers James Durant and Oscar Thomas. Funeral Services: Thursday, December 28, 2017 @ 1:00 P.M. at S.P. Jones and Son Funeral Chapel; 208 North Broad St. Kenbridge, Virginia 23944; Elder Alfred Thomas, Jr. Officiating Interment: Ellis Family Cemetery; Ellis Lane, Kenbridge, Virginia 23944