Willie Floyd Thomas, Jr. was born in Calhoun County, Georgia on July 16, 1952. He was the son of Beatrice Simmons Thomas and the late Willie Floyd Thomas.

He attended the public schools of Calhoun County, including H. T. Singleton High School where he was active in many school activities.

As a youth, Willie accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and united with the Christ Missionary Baptist Church of Arlington, GA.

Very early in life, Willie developed a longing and passion for what would become his professional skill and trade—auto mechanic. As a mechanic for many years, he labored tirelessly performing miracles on countless cars, many of which people had just written off as worthless. No matter what the task, he took great pride in his work and his mechanical abilities. He found joy and solace in his life-long passion that enabled him to provide unconditionally for his family.

On December 13, 2009, he was united in holy matrimony to Malakan Thomas. This union was blessed with a blended family of three children for whom they provided guidance, direction, love, and support.

"Foy" as he was affectionately called by family and friends, was a loving son, husband, father, brother, uncle cousin, and friend who had a special bond with each one. He was always stern, but quick to forgive. Being surrounded by family and friends filled his heart and he cherished every moment that he spent with them. The distance that he would go for his family was also the distance that he would go for a friend or a stranger.

Willie answered his final call on January 8, 2018, as he transitioned to his eternal home. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by five siblings, Jerry Dean Thomas, David Lee Thomas, Beechie Mae Randley, Eddie B. Thomas, and Sherry Ann Thomas.

Loving memories will always be cherished by his devoted wife, Malaka Thomas; three children, Willie A. Thomas, Perdarious Thomas, and Shakinah Thomas; his loving mother, Beatrice Simmons Thomas; eight siblings, Richard Thomas, Velma (W. T.) White, Patsy Simmons, Marion (Jerry) Collier, Geneva Martin, and Evelyn Holmes all of Albany, GA, Darien (Cydalia) Wims of Dothan, AL, and Bobbie Haland of Long Island, NY; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends