Gilbert Thomas, Jr. was born in Moultrie, Georgia on April 21, 1956, to the late Annie Mae and Gilbert Thomas, Sr. During the early years of his life, Gilbert accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. He was formerly married to Tammie L. Thomas and with this union, two children were born.

Over the years, Gilbert's professional work life was diverse and rewarding. He was employed as a sales representative at Gill's Rentals for numerous years. Determined to broaden his skills, he later accepted employment with the City of Albany where he labored untiringly as a Highway Safety Specialist. Gilbert was a fiercely independent individual who eagerly accepted challenges. For many years he was a loyal and dedicated employee of Cooper Tires. Throughout his career, Gilbert held fast to his belief that work is honorable. His ambition, drive, and fervor further spurred him to become a self-employed real estate investor and property manager. No matter what the task, he took great pride in a "job well done."

"Jimmie" as he was affectionately called, embraced every opportunity to experience life with open arms and to make a difference. He was blessed with a remarkable mind that never ceased questioning or creating, a smile and twinkle in his eyes that brought joy and happiness to many, and a heart that opened to and touched anyone who met him. The distance that he would go for his family was also the distance that he would go for a friend or a stranger.

On Wednesday, January 3, 2018, Jimmie answered his final call to Glory at the Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Jonathan Thomas, Robert Thomas, and Peter Thomas.

Gilbert leaves a legacy of love and inspiration to be cherished by his children, Stephanie Thomas, Antonio Thomas, and Roger Lewis all of Albany, GA; siblings, Essie (James) Cooley of Bloomfield, CT, Mary Love and Alma Thomas of Albany, GA, Freddie (Christine) Thomas of Grand Rapids, MI, Brenda (Gary) Fout of Atlanta, GA , Wilma Hill of Doerun, GA, Stacey (Traci) Williams of Moultrie, GA, Zachary (Denise) Williams of Chesapeake, VA, and Patrick (Shanondra) Williams of Atlanta, GA; grandchildren, I'yanna Thomas, Amiah Clark-Thomas, Amir Thomas, and Zikeith Thomas; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.