Fannie Thomas was born on July 19, 1927 to James Walker and Matilda Love Walker in Boydton, Virginia. She was the eleventh of twelve children. She departed her life on June 27, 2016 at her home in Milford, Virginia.

Fannie graduated from East End High School in Clarksville, Virginia in 1947.

She married the late George H. Thomas in May, 1947. They were blessed with two sons Van H. Thomas of Milford, Virginia and Clifford H. Thomas (deceased) and one daughter Antoinette Thomas of Milford, Virginia.

Fannie moved to Newark, New Jersey in 1948. She attended The College of Beauty Culture, whereas she graduated in 1953. Shortly thereafter, she joined the Modern Beautician Association of New Jersey and a member for twenty years. She is a license holder in two states, New Jersey and Virginia. She owned her beauty shop in New Jersey for 24 years.

Her family knew her as a loving, kind and caring wife, mother, grandmother, neighbor and friend who always had time to extend a helping hand in a supportive and compassionate manner. Not only was she known for her beautiful hats, but flowers was one of her hobbies. She always had a smile and time to stop and be social with all whom she met. She loved the Lord and remained humble and down to earth. Her motto was "Reach up as far as you can and God will reach down for you".

Fannie was also a faithful member of St. John Baptist Church. She was in the Flower Ministry and attended Bible study faithfully.

She leaves to cherish her memories one son, Van H. Thomas (Clarice), one daughter, Antoinette Thomas; one sister, Ida Walker of East Orange, New Jersey; three grandchildren, Tamara Thomas, Tameka Thomas-Brown of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Candance Thomas of Baltimore, Maryland; four great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A viewing will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday July 8, 2016 at C. W. Edwards Funeral Home 16476 Richmond Turnpike, Bowling Green, Virginia 22427 and hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m. at St. John Baptist Church, 17080 South River Road, Woodford, Virginia 22580. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.