Mark William Thomas

Mark William Thomas, age 55, of Sanford, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Cape Fear Valley Hospital.

He was born in Lee County to Fleet William Thomas, Jr. and the late Helen Louise Baker.  In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by maternal grandparents Florence and Dewitt Baker and paternal grandfather Fleet William Thomas, Sr.

Mark worked many years at Wicker Oil and for the past twelve years at Pentair. Mark was a man defined by strength, hard work, and a generous heart. He never met a stranger or challenge he wouldn’t face head-on and never hesitated to help someone in need. If you needed a hand, he was there—and if you needed the shirt off his back, he would give it without a second thought. He could fix just about anything. His hands were always busy, whether repairing something that was broken or building something to last. He took pride in working hard and doing things the right way. Tough when he needed to be, strong in every sense of the word, he was also a true teddy bear to those who knew him best. Beneath his rugged exterior was a gentle soul who loved deeply and gave freely.

In his free time, Mark found joy in the simple things he loved most—grilling for family and friends, spending time hunting, being outdoors and spending time with his grandson, Siloh, whom he adored.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Renee; son Zach Thomas (Taylor) of Broadway; daughter Tori (Maverick) of Broadway; his father Fleet Thomas, Jr. of Sanford; sister Renee Covert (AJ) of Sanford; grandmother Georgia Thomas Clendenen (Jerry) of  Broadway; aunt Barbara Mason of Broadway; nieces and nephews Kensey, Kyler and Connor and his beloved grandson Siloh Gray.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 1:50 PM at Baptist Chapel Church.  A funeral service will follow at  2:00 PM with Pastor Alex Smith and Pastor Scott Yow officiating.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.

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