“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.” ~ Psalm 23:4
Bennett Darryl Thomas was born August 18, 1961, in Miami, Florida, to parents, Ben and Nella Ruth Wilson Thomas. He was raised in the loving and nurturing communities of Richmond Heights and South Miami Heights. He graduated from Miami McArthur South High School, taking academic and vocational classes. Bennett worked many years for Wackenhut Security as a Certified Security Guard.
An avid fisherman, he spent many off-hours fishing the bay and ocean. Frequent overnight fishing trips in the Keys, from shore and boats with his brother, Kelvin, cousins and nephews, provided loads of fish, for fish fries, and hours of humorous “fish tales”. When not fishing, he filled his hours spending time with family and neighbors, running errands, doing repairs, and helping when and where needed. Always smiling, he brought smiles to others. He loved his family and never met a stranger. He would carry bags of candy when visiting family, friends, and neighbors, for their children. Bennett was blessed to meet the love of his life and soulmate, Virginia Floyd. He moved to St. Simons Island, GA, to begin life’s next chapter. He began his long career with Winn Dixie. Bennett had a strong work ethic. He loved his job, meeting people, and helping where and when needed. He and Virginia shared a loving, supportive “good life”. They both worked hard, enjoyed home life, gardening, tinkering, cooking, laughing – plenty of joy and laughter, and taking occasional vacations. On September 15, 2021, following a swift and intense physical challenge,
Bennett D. Thomas transitioned from his earthly home to his heavenly home to be with the Lord. Preceding him in death are his parents, Ben Thomas and Nella Ruth Thomas; his sister, Beverly Thomas Chapman; aunts and uncles, Louis Carter, Bernice W. Battle, and Myrdis W. Terry; and nieces, Courtney Ferrell and Shikala Youngblood.
Bennett leaves to cherish loving memories: his loving life partner, Virginia Floyd; son, Malachi Lamar Love; sisters, Audrey Rolle James (Stanley) and Darlene Grant; brother, Kelvin B. Thomas; in-laws, Michael Chapman, Leslie Floyd, Joe and Charlestta Cross; numerous nieces and nephews, including E. Misty Thomas, Lanasha Thomas, and Larry Carter; uncles and aunts, Leo and Eudell Carter, John W. Battle, Sr., A. Marie Wilson Poitier, and Erma Wilson Thornton; a hpst of other relatives and friends.
Due to the current state of (COVID-19) pandemic and in order to promote social distancing, anyone entering the funeral home for viewing; as well as attending all graveside services must wear a mask. We will also limit the number of persons allowed to enter the funeral home at any given period during the viewing process. We ask that you leave the premise upon exiting the building. The family is most appreciative to each of you for your prayers and considerations during this difficult time in their lives.