Thomas, Clarence Bill

Clarence E. “Bill” Thomas, 96, of Floyd, VA departed from his earthly life on Saturday, August 8, 2026. He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Macie Thomas; brothers, Laurel and Cletus Thomas; along with several brothers and sisters-in-law.

After his service in the United States Army as a member of the C Battalion 19, he attended Jefferson High School’s adult vocational program on the GI Bill for bricklaying. He initially began work as an apprentice, but then quickly gained the status of journeyman and worked as a self-employed contractor.

When Bill wasn’t working, he loved camping, farming, and yard work, mowing his grass faithfully through the age of 95 ensuring that things were kept in pristine conditions. In his younger days he loved to travel whether it be through camping, cruising, or bus tours. His true passion in life was dancing and listening to music.

Bill and his wife, Marie V. Thomas, celebrated 71 wonderful years together. When they weren’t traveling, their marriage was filled with their love for dancing. Together they competed in multiple Arthur Murray Competitions winning several medals including Gold in Foxtrot and Swing. Bill was a faithful Friday Night Jamboree participant up until he was no longer able to attend; however, his love of music continued on and this was clearly evident to anyone who ever visited him, because if he wasn’t watching NASCAR or the news, he always had a music station playing as loud as possible, truly loving the idea of feeling the music, not just listening to it.

Aside from his wife, Bill is survived by his son & daughter-in-law, Stephen and Beth Thomas; granddaughter, Katie Thomas (Jason Stump); two sisters, Claudine Sowers and Barbara Vest (Sheldon); several brothers- and sisters-in-law; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 14, 2026 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Jerry Hylton officiating. Interment will follow at Stonewall Cemetery with Military Rites by the Army National Guard. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 13, 2026 at the funeral home.

If you wish to honor his memory, in lieu of flowers, consider donating to the Stonewall Building Fund c/o Kim Turman, 4455 Floyd Hwy N, Floyd, VA 24091.