Haywood Lee

Thomas

With grateful hearts, we reverently announce the earthly transition of Deacon Haywood Lee Thomas on January 27, 2024 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his loving family.  Born April 13, 1938 to Ardie M. Thomas & James Monroe Barkley in the Springfield Community, he was 85 years of age and a native of Jackson County.  At an early age Haywood mother relocated to Marianna Florida, in what was then known as Daffin Bottom.  Haywood attended Jackson County Elementary School & Jackson County Training High School where he excelled in academics and was well known as a super basketball and football player.

Haywood then furthered his education by attending Florida Memorial College where he received a scholarship in football.  Upon returning home he was employed by Florida School for Boys for a short time but had to leave when he was called to serve his country in the United States Army.  In 1963 after completing his tour duty, he then returned to reclaim his position at Florida School for Boys as a House Parent & Supervisor 1 where he remained for 40 years.

On April 9, 1966 he was united in Holy Matrimony to the one and only Callie Mary Long.

At a young age Haywood joined New Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church where he served in the Senior Choir, Sunday school Teacher, Sunday School Superintendent and under pastorate Rev. Rollie Murray, Jr. Haywood was ordained and served faithfully in the role of deacon.  Later Haywood elevated to the Chairman of the Deacon Board under Rev. Robert Wooden.  In 2023 per his years of service to the church under the leadership of Rev. Gregory Gathers he became Chairman Emeritus of the Deacons Ministry.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers, 2 sisters and his beloved daughter Shasma Y. Thomas Baptiste.

He leaves to honor his legacy a beloved wife of 57 years: Callie Mary Long Thomas; Sons: Haywood Thomas, Jr. (Michon) & James Thomas (Kimonetia); Grandchildren: Damien, Dominique, Dadrianna, Kennedi, Justin, Courtney, Michael, Christian, & James; Great Grandchildren: Dexter, Christian and Melania; Sisters: Eulice J. Bryant (Elmore) & Daisy Green (Charles); Sisters-in-law: Lutissue Pyles, Juanita Thomas and Naomi Clemmons; God Daughters: Latesha Simms & Rotaya Cobb; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.