Glenda Bivens Thomas

Glenda Ferral Thomas was born on July 16, 1936, in Boston, Georgia, and peacefully passed away on October 3, 2025. She moved to Thomasville at a young age, where she attended Douglas High School before going on to study at Albany State College, majoring in Dietetics. Glenda had a natural gift for cooking and took great joy in preparing meals for her family and friends. After graduating, she and her sisters moved to New York City, where Glenda’s life would blossom in new and meaningful ways. Sadly her 2 sisters Kathleen and Madeen became ill and passed away shortly after moving to New York City. 

In the Bronx, Glenda met the love of her life, Wesley Thomas II, and the two were married in 1960. Together, they built a beautiful family and were blessed with three children: Wesley III, Glenda, and June. While raising her family, Glenda worked as a dietitian in a hospital before serving as a teacher’s aide at P.S. 75 on 96th Street in Manhattan. She was a devoted wife and mother who balanced work and home with grace, strength, and unwavering love. After the passing of her husband in 1979, Glenda returned to Thomasville in 1983 to care for her ailing mother. There, she continued her lifelong commitment to helping others by working in the health field and later at Fallin’s BBQ, where she proudly served the community for over 25 years. 

Glenda Thomas was cherished for her strong work ethic, kind heart, and deep sense of community. She gave generously to local children during the holidays and found joy in her garden, where her love for flowers flourished. Known affectionately for her garden flowers and protective nature she became a “true Rose Queen from the Rose City,” Glenda’s spirit and warmth touched everyone she met. She leaves behind her beloved children, Wesley Thomas of The Bronx, NY and Glenda Thomas Oliver of Manhattan, NY,—and her grandchildren: Jamil Thomas of The Bronx, NY; Willie Thomas of Brooklyn, NY; Elroy M. Oliver Jr of Manhattan, NY; Simon Thomas of Thomasville, GA; and Kieanna Samuel of Thomasville, GA. She is preceded in death by her daughter, June Samuel who passed on September 19, 2024. Her legacy of love, kindness, and resilience will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her.