On Sunday, April 19, 2026, Dr. John R. Thomas of Florence went to be with his Heavenly Father at the age of 81. Visitation will be Friday, April 24 at Williams Funeral Home from 11:00 – 1:00 pm. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 pm in Florence City Cemetery.
Dr. Thomas attended Gilbert Grammar School and later attended Coffee High School, where he graduated in 1962 alongside many lifelong friends. During his school years, he played both basketball and baseball. In 1962, he was a member of the Coffee High School baseball team that won the state championship—the first Coffee team to achieve this honor.
Dr. Thomas went on to attend the University of Alabama School of Dentistry, graduating in 1969. He faithfully practiced dentistry for more than forty years, serving his patients and community with dedication throughout his professional career.
Dr. Thomas is survived by his three children: Dr. Graham Thomas, Katherine Thomas, MBA, and Candace McClure Thomas, a graduate of the Paul Mitchell School. He is also survived by Katie Thomas, wife of Dr. Graham Thomas, and their son, Tristan.
He is further survived by his brother, Richard Russell Thomas, and his wife, Rhonda; their children, Preston McClure Thomas and his wife, Mimms, and their daughter, Suzi; and Courtney Thomas, and his beloved companion, Tina Hubler, and his longtime friend Ms. Cora Harden.
Dr. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy M. Thomas and John S. Thomas, and his grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. John S. Thomas all of Florence, Alabama, and Mr. and Mrs. Robert McClure of Decatur, Alabama.
His kindness, dedication to his patients, and love for his family will be remembered always.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to The Shoals Community Dental Clinic 256-760-4713.
