Ronald M. Thomas

Ronald M. Thomas, faithful servant of God, died peacefully at home on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the age of 83. Born in Spring City, Tennessee, on February 28, 1942, Ron grew up in Inskip and graduated from Central High School. He was an active member of Inskip Presbyterian Church. He loved his church deeply, participating in the youth group, choir, and worship services. As a Boy Scout, gifted athlete, and student, he carried both discipline and joy into every part of his life. His love for the VOLS lasted a lifetime. As a young man, Ron married the love of his life, Wanda Bohanan, and the couple settled in Rogersville, Tennessee, while Ron worked for TVA. In 1964, they welcomed their daughter, Rhonda, and in 1969, their son, Stan. Soon after, Ron answered God’s call to ministry and enrolled in Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia, where he earned a Master of Theology degree. Following graduation, he began serving a three-church field in Jefferson, South Carolina, as pastor of Jefferson Presbyterian Church, McBee Presbyterian Church, and Rocky Creek Presbyterian Church. In 1974, he accepted the call to Piedmont Presbyterian Church in Piedmont, South Carolina, where he faithfully shepherded the congregation for 35 years. A member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry since 1978, Ron achieved 32 Degree Freemasonry. Guided by six Core Values – Reverence for God, Integrity, Devotion to Country, Justice, Tolerance, and Service to Humanity. Ron was a gifted preacher and teacher, but his greatest gift was his love for people. Though honored by the title of “Reverend,” he strove most of all to be a true pastor—walking with his congregation through life’s joys and sorrows. He often said, “If your people know you love them, they’ll get something out of every sermon you preach.” His ministry was marked by compassion, humility, and a tireless desire to see others flourish. In 2009, Ron and Wanda returned to Knoxville for their retirement. They became active members of Fountain City Presbyterian Church, where Ron joyfully served as a Parish Associate, visiting the sick, comforting the shut-in, and continuing his lifelong ministry of presence and care. Preceding in death by Stanley Ray Thomas (father), Elva Harris (mother), Ken Thomas (brother), Steve Thomas (brother) and Barbara Pressley (sister). Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda; daughter, Rhonda Willis (John); son, Stan Thomas (Rebecca); sister, Elizabeth Armstrong (Mike); sisters-in-law, JoAnn McMurray and Brenda Warwick (Bob); nieces, Kim Lyon (Lee), Tammy Manis (Jimmy), and Lacci Peterman (Mike); nephews, Mike and Ernie Pressley along with many great-nieces, great great-nieces and nephews, and countless friends who cherished him. A Celebration of Life and Memorial Service will be held on the Lord’s Day, Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Fountain City Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends from 2:00–3:00 p.m., followed by the worship service. All are invited afterward to the Fellowship Hall for a time of food and fellowship. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Fountain City Presbyterian Church 500 Hotel Road Knoxville, TN 37918. Family and friends will meet at 10:45 a.m. Monday, October 6, 2025, at Emory Pike American Christian Church Cemetery for an 11:00 a.m. interment service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Fountain City Presbyterian Church 500 Hotel Road Knoxville, TN 37918