Ethel Kate Thomas, daughter of the late J. W. High and Hattie M. Briley, was born in Lee County, Georgia on December 17, 1964. She was nurtured and cared for under the guiding hands of her grandparents, the late Andrew and Willie Ethel Rivers.

She was educated in the Lee County School System, graduating from Lee County High School in 1983. Ethel was a life-long learner who believed strongly in higher education. She continued her quest for knowledge at Darton College, Georgia Southwestern, Capella University and Troy University with a major in Criminal Justice.

Ethel was the epitome of a loving, altruistic mother. She took her role seriously and invested much time, knowledge, and skill in caring for her home and her daughters and her granddaughter. Whether needing advice, a listening ear, or casual conversation, they knew that Ethel was always available to her them out. Not only was she a loving mother, but a dedicated and inspiring teacher as well. For numerous years, Ethel Kate taught several generations of students in the Sumter County Public School System. She was immensely devoted to the children she taught, and worked untiringly to enrich their spirits and their minds.

A genuinely kind and selfless individual, Ethel was always giving to others from her heart. She was a compassionate caregiver for various family members throughout her life; and she played an important role in the lives of everyone that she touched in general. Even in the midst of health challenges, Ethel held a strength that was all her own. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her dearly.

On April 17, 2023, Ethel transitioned from this earthly life to eternal peace and rest surrounded by her family. In addition to her parents and grandparents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Alexandra Thomas; and her sister, Bernice Briley.

Loving memories will forever remain with her daughter, Amber L. Ross; her cherished granddaughter, Trinity A. Ross; a loving sister/caregiver, Carol L. Briley; six brothers, Calvin Thomas, John (Jeanette) Thomas, Robert Thomas, Mark (Toshia) Briley, Michael (Racquel) Briley, and Howard Thomas; devoted friends, Bobby and Shirlene Fair, Paula and Keith Walcott, Marilyn George, Marty Garghing, Tony, and Rose; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends .