Mr. Samuel Earl Thomas was born February 7, 1955 to the late Marvin and Bertha Thomas of Blakely, Georgia.

Mr. Thomas attended the public schools of Dougherty County, elementary and secondary.  Many years later he resumed his education at the Albany Technical College where he thrived as he learned computer skills, horticulture lawn care and the use of modern technology.  He made an everlasting impression with his classmates.  He formed many lasting relationships with the many people he met through his daily experiences.

Samuel was affectionally known as "Uncle Shug" by his many nieces, nephews, cousins and loved ones.  He enjoyed dressing in the latest fashions and being alive in vivid colors.  He was known throughout the family for giving each child his or her own special name at birth that he felt suited each child's personality: (Rubber Duck, Josephine, Schoolboy, Charlie Mae, Clyde, Sango, Curly Top, Tuff, Lucinda, Popeye, Geezer, High Roller, AbbeyGail, Frog) just to name a few.

He leaves a legacy of love to be cherished by his two sisters, Eddie Mae Moody (Deacon Jessie Moody) and Melva Simmons (Deacon Calvin Simmons) all of Albany, GA; one brother who preceded him in death, Mr. James Thomas of Blakely GA; one daughter, Kimberly Hardaway(Christopher) of Hamilton, GA; two grandchildren: Jalen and Christopher, Hamilton, GA; close cousins, Dr. Merita Green, Albany, GA, formerly of Fort Lauderdale, FL, Mr. Melvin Lomack (Alice)  and Mrs. Maudine Peters all of Fort  Lauderdale, FL; and a host of nieces and nephews from Albany and Blakely, GA.  Samuel was reared with four of his nieces and nephews who was like his sisters and brother: Shirley Luster (Deacon Johnny Luster), Janice Fleming, Wanda Moody, and Eddie J. Moody all of Albany, GA, and Marva Thomas who preceded him in death.