Jonas Edwin "Eddie" Thomas

Eddie Thomas, 81, of Hillsborough, NC, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026. He was born on June 22, 1944, in Walnut, NC, to the late Vonnie Lee (Revis) and Lankford “Tommie” Thomas. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his brother Herbert Thomas.

Eddie proudly served his country in the United States Army, including spending a year in Germany. He worked for Clearview Glass Company, Dixie Decorating Service, Integon Insurance Agency, Borden Dairy, and Harris Teeter (over 20 years).

A member of several softball teams throughout the years, with his favorite time being in the church league at Oak Grove Athletic Association. He also coached girls' teams that his daughter played on in summer leagues and followed the Atlanta Braves baseball team throughout his life. When Eddie was no longer able to compete in softball, he got involved in the church Dart-Ball league. Eddie loved watching NASCAR races on Sundays and UNC sports, especially basketball.

An avid fisherman, Eddie loved being out in the boat with his long-time buddies Lawrence Green and Jim Elsey. Time stood still whenever they were on the water.

Eddie was a faithful member of Durham Memorial Baptist Church for over 60 years, where he served in many roles, including being ordained as a Deacon and singing in the choir, as well as serving on numerous committees and ministry teams. He had a passion for roasting pigs and shoulders, and cooking on the grill, and he was involved in many hospitality and fundraising activities.

Eddie is survived by his loving wife of 60+ years Jo Ann (Emory) Thomas, and his daughter, Angela Marie (Thomas) Morris and her husband, Tom. Also, his nieces, Kathy and Fran of Mars Hill, NC.

A funeral service will be held Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Durham Memorial Baptist Church with a visitation from 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Burial will take place on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Durham Memorial Baptist Church Hospitality Ministry Team, 133 Robbins Rd. Durham, NC 27703.