Robert Burton Thomas, 89, of Southside, departed this life on Saturday, March 11, 2023, in Little Rock. He was born in Huff, Arkansas, on September 12, 1933, to Johnny and Edna Thomas. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Betty Greenhaw. He is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years, Melda Jean Thomas and children, Johnny Thomas, of Southside, Arkansas and Danny (Beverly) Thomas of Maumelle, Arkansas.
Robert served our country proudly in the Navy from 1951 up until 1959 at which time he was honorably discharged. He then enrolled in the Draughon School of Business located in Little Rock, Arkansas and earned his associate’s degree in accounting two years later. He then became the chief financial officer of the Thomas Egg Company where he served in that capacity for three years. Upon leaving the company he began raising livestock including cows and hogs. He also raised chickens and had four chicken houses in operation at one time. He transitioned into the car business later in his work career and enjoyed going to a few car auctions in cities in Texas such as Houston and Dallas to buy vehicles and bring them back to Batesville to sell. Here in Arkansas, he loved attending the Beebe car auction and could be seen there frequently buying and selling vehicles.
Robert was a former Gideon and a charter member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Southside where he served as a loyal and dedicated deacon for over 50 years. He also enjoyed teaching Sunday School and participating in the discussions of the weekly lessons. He loved his church family dearly.
Robert gave his life to the Lord at age 35 and served him faithfully for the rest of his life until he was called home to be with the Father.
Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Fellowship Baptist Church in Southside with Bro. Raymon Carneal and Bro. Richard Nuckolls officiating. Burial will follow in the Palestine Cemetery on Hutchinson Mountain.
Visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 9:00 a.m. and continue until service time.
Pallbearers will be Brad Covington, Brad Cummings, Joey Bangs, Aaron Cantrell, Kenny Greenhaw, and Kenny Wayne Greenhaw.
Honorary Pallbearers are Harry Shelton, David Brewer, and the Fellowship Baptist Church Men’s Sunday School Class.
A special acknowledgment of thanks to the staff at the Ash Flat Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Arkansas Hospice at St. Vincent Hospital in Little Rock for the outstanding care given to Robert during the duration of the time he was there.
