Waylon Wayne Thomas

Waylon Wayne Thomas, age 85, of Olivia, NC, passed away on Saturday, May 9, 2020 at First Health Hospice House, Pinehurst, NC with his two sons, Terry and Sammy, by his side. 

Wayne, youngest of 9 children, was born in Lee County on December 30, 1934, to the late Jones Henry Thomas and Nola Elena Holt Thomas.

He was a very devoted and loving husband for 64 years to his wife, Jeanette Crowson Thomas, who preceded him in death in 2017.

He is survived by his sons, Terry Wayne Thomas of Olivia and Sammy Dean Thomas of Holly Ridge, NC; three grandchildren, Chad Thomas, Dustin and Marlenne Thomas and Abby Thomas; great grandchild, Baylee Thomas; Sister, Johnsie Baker.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Rufus Thomas, Jim Thomas, J.W. Thomas and Jack Thomas; sisters, Elsie Griffin, Lena Smith, Mary Morgan.

Wayne’s strong work ethic led him to a career, beginning in 1953, in metal fabrication and manufacturing in Lee County and surrounding areas. He worked with Bracken Steel, and continued with Hercules Steel and Machine Products, with offices in Fayetteville. When a custom job was required, he would fabricate the needed piece at his home workshop.  This led to the opening of Olivia Machine and Tool in 1981 with his sons. It continues in operation today with his sons and grandson.

He was a man of God and faithful member of Olivia Presbyterian Church, serving as Deacon, Elder and Lay Preacher. He was devoted to caring for and visiting others in the community especially in time of need, particularly the elderly and less fortunate. For many years, Wayne served as pastor/preacher for numerous funerals and burials of family and friends throughout North Carolina.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at Olivia Presbyterian Church from 1:00 PM to 2:15 PM.  Due to Covid restrictions, the funeral service will be held in the church parking lot with Rev. Bob Johnson, Pastor Curtis Norris and Rev. Percy Coleman officiating. Those attending the service may feel free to remain in their vehicles. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

 In lieu of flowers, the family request donations are made, in memory of Wayne Thomas, to the Baptist Children’s Home of  NC, PO Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27360 or 1-800-476-3669  Designated for Cameron Boys’ Camp and Camp Duncan.

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