IN MEMORIAM PASTOR CLARENCE LEE THOMAS

Elder Clarence Lee Thomas was born to the late Mr. James and Mrs. Ludella Thomas on February 2, 1942 in Coosa County, Alabama. Clarence “Sonny” Thomas made his transition on Friday, January 29, 2021. Sonny was educated in the School System of Coosa County, Alabama. At New Home Baptist Church, at an early age Sonny made a confession of Faith in Christ, became a member. Sonny and his best friend traveled often to Columbus Ohio, where he met and fell in love with Shirley A. Williams. They were united in holy matrimony on May 5, 1964. Out of their union God blessed them with 5 beautiful children: 3 sons and 2 daughters. In August of 1980 Sonny accepted the calling to Pastor, he and Shirley started New Hope Pentecostal UHC. New Hope started with five families in a store front building on Mock Rd. A few years later they moved to their current location where he pastored for 40 years until his death. New Hope served the community in many ways, with Outreach programs such as feeding the homeless, Vacation Bible School, Revivals and Prayer Walks. Sonny also served as the President of the Akron District Union for several years and sat on the board of Presbyterian for the Northwestern District. Sonny leaves to cherish his memories; a loving wife, Shirley A. Thomas, two sisters, Kate Mitchell, of Miami, Florida Joyce Thomas, of Lithonia, Georgia, one brother, Benjamin Thomas, of Birmingham, Alabama three sons Frankie (Tamala)Thomas, Clarence (Tina) Thomas, Dwight (Moseneice) Thomas, two daughters Lisa Thomas, and ReGina Thomas, all of Columbus, Ohio. 9 Grandchildren, 14 Great Grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews, and a loving church family.