Clarence Ray Thomas' Obituary
Clarence Ray Thomas born January 24, 1932 passed away Saturday July 29, 2017. He was the son of Benjamin and Elizabeth Thomas. Clarence was raised in LaCrosse Florida where he helped work the farm with his father.
He served in the Army where he was stationed in Japan during the Korean War. He returned to the Gainesville area, where he joined the Gainesville Fire Department and raised a family. He retired as a driver operator from Gainesville Fire Department after 25 years of service.
He was a friend to all and everyone was his friend, he never met a stranger. He had a passion for music and played numerous instruments including the guitar, dobro, banjo and harmonica. He loved animals especially his horses and dogs, he had an unbreakable bond with his two black labs, Jake and Cody. He trained them with love and patience and took pride in the relationship he had with them.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Eula Mae and brother Bennie Jr.
He is survived by his daughter, Connie (Steve) and his son, Corey (Tracy) and their adopted brother, Cody; grandchildren, Sierra, Zachary, Hunter, CJ, Katlyn, Carleigh, and Kari; two sisters, Jeanette and Eileen, and brother, Larry.
A graveside service will be held Friday, August 4, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Grove Cemetery off 77th Road in Branford, FL. The family will receive friends Thursday, August 3, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at WILLIAMS-THOMAS FUNERAL HOME WESTAREA, 823 NW 143rd Street.
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