Mr. Enoch Thomas, 103, passed away September 21, 2011, at St. Catherine Laboure Manor under the care of Community Hospice of Jacksonville, Florida. He was born to the late Spencer and Fannie Thomas October 25, 1907, and raised in Blountstown, Florida. Mr. Thomas was the sixth of nine children; all are deceased but one. From the age of 12, he was a faithful member of St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Blountstown.
In 1997, when his health began to fail, he moved to Jacksonville to live with his daughter and son-in-law, Katrena Alexander and the late Eugene Alexander. After that move, in a few months his health improved and he was the Enoch that all knew. Mr. Thomas joined Simpson Memorial United Methodist Church as an associate member.
His favorite song to sing was “I Got Oil in My Vessel”. A few days before his passing, he sung “Amazing Grace! How sweet the sound” to those visiting with him. He truly was a witness for the Lord, that was his every day walk and talk.
Mr. Thomas was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Ruth Brown-Thomas. From this union they were blessed with 11 children, eight boys and three girls. Four of them are deceased. Mr. Thomas leaves to cherish his memory six children, Early Thomas (Florene) Blountstown, Martha Lewis, Katrena Alexander and Isaiah Thomas of Jacksonville, and Henry Thomas and Laura Byrd of Irvington, New Jersey. He has 31 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren and 15 great-great grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Mary Almon, of Jacksonville; a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, Godchildren, extended Christian family and friends.
The funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 1, at 11 A.M. at St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, 16076 East River Street, Blountstown, with Rev. Calvin Griffin, Senior Pastor, officiating. Visitation will be on Friday September 30, from 5 to 7 p.m. at St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Professional services provided by Vann Funeral Home, 4265 St. Andrews Street, Marianna, ph. 850-482-3300.