Ealvy Vionia Thomas

Ealvy Vionia Thomas, known to many as Big Mama and Memaw, passed peacefully at her residence surrounded by family and friends on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. 

Ealvy was born on May 14, 1943, in Habersham County, Cornelia, Georgia to the late Maude and Jerry Dodd. Ealvy had one brother and five sisters. 

Ealvy married the love of her life Melvin Hoke Thomas on June 14, 1958, in Walhalla, South Carolina when she was 15 years old. They moved to Eatonton later that same year. Her careers included nursing at the nursing home, serving the local community as a Police Officer, and managing Dixie Oil and Glo gas stations with her husband for many years. 

Melvin and Ealvy had four daughters, Lina Thomas (Marvin), the late Suvella Thomas, Janey Thomas (Tony), and the late Lynn Thomas all from Eatonton. Melvin and Ealvy also raised their granddaughter from birth Melissia Rusk (Jay) of Buckhead in addition to a grandson, Chris Nelms (Ricki) of Eatonton. Other grandsons include Lenwood Pickens (Savannah) of Eatonton and Jerry Nelms (Shawna) of Buford; Seven great grandchildren Thomas-Jay Rusk, Jade Nelms, Aimee Nelms, Deandra Nelms, Selah Pickens, Salem Pickens, and Sutten Pickens. 

Ealvy was a devoted caregiver to all, cherishing her family most. Her commitment, unconditional love, and dedication to her family and everyone she met will always be remembered. Her ability to provide comfort, strength, and beautiful wisdom will never be forgotten. Ealvy was a member of Crossroads Baptist Church. 

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Crossroads Baptist Church, 106 S. Wesley Chapel Road, Eatonton, Georgia with a Celebration of Life service to follow at 2 p.m. 

Express online condolences at www.williamsfuneral.net.