Rev. Robert Payton Thomas Sr.

Robert “Payton” Thomas Sr. (age 93), a beloved father and servant of God, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2025. He was born on February 28, 1931, in Montgomery County, Alabama to the union of Cade and Willie (Reed) Thomas.

He attended Hughes High School. He was drafted and served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1950 until 1952. His stories of resilience and God’s covering during those years were a testament to his strength and character.

On June 27, 1959, he married the love of his life, Queenie Harris. Together, they raised six wonderful children, creating a home filled with love, laughter, and faith. He was a devoted husband who cherished Queenie deeply, always by her side through life’s ups and downs. Their marriage was a beautiful testament to enduring love and commitment, lasting 45 years until her passing in 2005.

He was also blessed with a daughter from a previous relationship in 1958. The relationship with his daughter grew stronger over the last few years, which is something that he cherished.

In 1969, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. This pivotal moment in his life was often recounted with a sense of profound gratitude and joy. For many years, he and his wife, Queenie, served the Kingdom in many capacities and often mentored young Christians in their walk with Christ. One of the things that they found great joy in was sharing God’s word with those who were unable to attend regular church services. They ministered to patients at Alaska Acres Care Center and Daniel Drake Center for many years, often bringing a smile to their faces with their gentle words and compassionate spirit.

In the early 1980’s, he was ordained to preach. He later joined Full Gospel Christian Fellowship under the leadership of Pastor Lucious Casey. He served faithfully as Assistant Pastor for many years until his health began to decline last fall. His dedication to the congregation was unwavering.

Known for his quiet and humble nature, he was a man of few words but deep wisdom. His family fondly remembers him as the backbone, the glue, the voice of reason, faithful and constant. His legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire us.

Preceding him in death was his wife of 45 years, Queenie (Harris) Thomas, three brothers; Fred Thomas of Chicago, Illinois, Edward Thomas of Montgomery, Alabama, and N.J. Anderson of Queens, New York and one sister; Emma Evans also of Montgomery, Alabama. He is survived by his seven children; Deborah Dandridge-Gilliam of Queens, New York, Robert Thomas, Jr., Gillian (Anthony) Pratt, Sharon Thomas, Darlene (Jason) Sanders, Lamont (Sandra) Thomas and Nicole (John) Ellison all of Cincinnati, Ohio, 4 sisters; Wilma Hagood of Phoenix, Arizona, Maggie Hyman of Queens, New York, Johnnie Mae Stuckey of Boston, Massachusetts and Annie (Booker) Washington of Chicago, Illinois, one sister-in-law; Gussie Thomas of Montgomery, Alabama, 15 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

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