Ernest Howell Thomas

Ernest Howell Thomas, age 77, of the Shoal Creek community of Cleveland, GA, passed away January 13, 2020 as his residence surrounded by family and friends.

Mr. Thomas was born June 23, 1942. His parents were the late Jesse and Willie Lou Stringer Thomas. Grandparents were the late J.G. and Milbry Reid Thomas and Alex and Cora Belle Kanady Stringer all of Cleveland, GA. He is also preceded in death by sons Mike and Mark Thomas of Cleveland, GA.

Mr. Thomas resided in White County all his life, except during his 20 years of honorable service in the United States Air Force.  Ernie served in Alaska and other places during his military career.  He also served in the Vietnam War.

Mr. Thomas always had a big smile on his face and had a sunny disposition which made him many friends.  He loved rabbit hunting with his Beagle dogs.  Ernie attended modern gun school and was an avid marksman.  He was a skilled carpenter and cabinet maker.  Ernie used his talent to make many flag display boxes for veterans and others.  He was a charter member of the White County Color Guard, a long-time member of Shoal Creek Baptist Church, a member of the New Vision Sunday School Class and helped with the benevolence and food pantry of his church.

Mr. Thomas is survived by his wife of 48 years, Ruby Thomas, Cleveland; sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Christi Thomas, Monroe, GA, and Bobby and Judy Lynn, Good Hope, GA; grandchildren, Tyler Thomas, Moriah Thomas, Emilie Thomas, and Kaitlin Barr.  Other survivors include sister and brother-in-law, Hilda and James Tallant; five brothers and their wives, Edsel and Carolyn Thomas, Jerry and Pat Thomas, Wallace and Elaine Thomas, Benny (Pop) and Peggy Thomas, Larry (Pood) and Janice Thomas, all of Cleveland; Also surviving are a large number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 P.M. Thursday, January 16, 2020 at Shoal Creek Baptist Church.  The Rev. Brian Watson and Mr. Michael Thomas will officiate.  Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 – 4:00 P.M. & 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave a condolence please visit www.barrettfh.com.

Barrett Funeral Home of Cleveland.