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Ralph LeDale Thomas (“Dale”) ascended to his heavenly home on June 15, 2024, holding the hand of his wife of 37 years, Rhonda Avery Thomas. She was his life and he was hers. Dale was born on June 8, 1958, in Birmingham, Alabama. He was a graduate of Morgan County High School (now Hartselle High School) and went to the University of North Alabama and Jacksonville State University on a football scholarship. Throughout his lifetime, Dale stayed connected to sports and was a member of the Tennessee Valley Officials and Umpires Association for over 11 years. He was an avid fan of Alabama Football as well as the Atlanta Braves. Dale was also a body builder in his early 20’s. He worked for American Express, Gingiss Formalwear in Alabama and Louisiana, as well as becoming the owner of Books Plus, which was a mainstay in many of our local schools. Dale loved the Lord and he loved his wife and family. He also loved the beach and the serenity and peace that it provided. As his cancer progressed, Dale’s relationship with God also grew and he became an inspiration to others as he shared his “God wink” moments. He touched the lives of so many. Dale was proceeded in death by his father, Ralph Thomas, and his mother, Marie Bell, and stepfather, George Bell. He is survived by his loving wife, Rhonda Avery Thomas; his sisters, Terri Harris (Dennis), Georgette Vining (Mike) and Denise Bell; as well as a host of nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. The family would like to give a special thanks to Dale’s best friend, Robert Black (“RB”), who was by his side every day; Dr. Mark Smith; Dr. Max DeLap: the entire staff at Florence Nursing & Rehab Suites who took such excellent care of him; and all the nurses at Helen Keller Hospital. Dale’s legacy lives on in our hearts and memories forever. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 27. 2024 at 4:30 PM at Joe Wheeler State Park, Pavilion #3. All are welcome to join us in honoring Dale.
Ralph LeDale Thomas (“Dale”) ascended to his heavenly home on June 15, 2024, holding the hand of his wife of 37 years, Rhonda Avery Thomas. She was his life and he was hers. Dale was born on June 8, 1958, in Birmingham, Alabama. He was a graduate of Morgan County High School (now Hartselle High School) and went to the University of North Alabama and Jacksonville State University on a football scholarship. Throughout his lifetime, Dale stayed connected to sports and was a member of the Tennessee Valley Officials and Umpires Association for over 11 years. He was an avid fan of Alabama Football as well as the Atlanta Braves. Dale was also a body builder in his early 20’s. He worked for American Express, Gingiss Formalwear in Alabama and Louisiana, as well as becoming the owner of Books Plus, which was a mainstay in many of our local schools. Dale loved the Lord and he loved his wife and family. He also loved the beach and the serenity and peace that it provided. As his cancer progressed, Dale’s relationship with God also grew and he became an inspiration to others as he shared his “God wink” moments. He touched the lives of so many. Dale was proceeded in death by his father, Ralph Thomas, and his mother, Marie Bell, and stepfather, George Bell. He is survived by his loving wife, Rhonda Avery Thomas; his sisters, Terri Harris (Dennis), Georgette Vining (Mike) and Denise Bell; as well as a host of nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. The family would like to give a special thanks to Dale’s best friend, Robert Black (“RB”), who was by his side every day; Dr. Mark Smith; Dr. Max DeLap: the entire staff at Florence Nursing & Rehab Suites who took such excellent care of him; and all the nurses at Helen Keller Hospital. Dale’s legacy lives on in our hearts and memories forever. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 27. 2024 at 4:30 PM at Joe Wheeler State Park, Pavilion #3. All are welcome to join us in honoring Dale.Elkins East Chapel is assisting the family.
