Richard Thomas

Richard Lee Thomas, 73, of Polkton, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on June 9, 2013 after a long battle with cancer. The family will gather with friends on Tuesday, June 11, 2013 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle. A celebration of his life, officiated by Rev. George Hunnicutt and Rev. Ron Honeycutt will be held at Rocky Mount Baptist Church on Wednesday, June 12, 2013 at 11:00 am. There will be a 30 minute state prior to the service. Burial will follow at the Rocky Mount Baptist Church Cemetery. At other times, the family will meet at his home. Richard was born November 18, 1939 in High Point, NC to the late Roy Lee Thomas and Virginia Hill Thomas of Polkton, NC. He was raised in Anson County and graduated from Burnsville High School in 1958. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Nellie Brown Thomas of the home and his dear daughter and son-in-law, Robin & Dietmar Stahnke of Polkton; his mother, Virginia H. Thomas of Polkton, and three brothers, David (Elaine) Thomas of Polkton; Doug (Irene) Thomas of Oakboro; and Steve Thomas of Richfield. Richard was a member of Rocky Mount Baptist Church where he was a deacon and Sunday School teacher. He was very active in his church and community, always helping friends and family. He was an avid hunter and loved the sport dearly. He retired from Overnite Transportation after 34 years of service. Richard was a 32nd Degree Mason in the 703 AF&AM in Albemarle. Masonic rites will take place at the graveside. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Stanly County, 960 North First Street, Albemarle, NC 28001. Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Thomas family.