Obituary of Freda Wilson Thomas

Freda Wilson Thomas, 78, of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina passed away July 26, 2023, at her home surrounded by her family.

Born in Dalton, Georgia, she was the youngest of seven siblings born to Asbury and Lorena Wilson.

Freda dedicated her life to raising her family and volunteering in her community and her church. A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, she was always ready and eager to help when needed. She had a deep faith in God and loved both of her church communities; Saint Andrews by the Sea and Varnell United Methodist Church. Her genuine love of service paired with her gentle joyfulness ensured that she was dearly loved by all who knew her.

Her kindness didn’t stop her from being a fierce competitor. If you were looking for Freda, you could usually find her on a tennis court. She truly loved the sport, and it enhanced her life not only due to the constant exercise, but also because of the lifelong friendships she made. When she wasn’t playing or watching tennis, she delighted in Mahjong and Canasta nights with her friends. The only thing more constant than her love for tennis was her love for her daily crosswords and the Atlanta Braves.

Freda is survived by her husband, Jerry Thomas; children, Bart Thomas, Beth Chao (Chris), and Jeremy Thomas (Anna); grandchildren, Jerriann Thomas, Abigail Chao, Nathan Chao, Joshua Thomas, and William Thomas; great grandchild, Brayden Thomas; and sisters, Ysleta Morgan and Doris Lee.

She was preceded in death by her brothers, J.B. Wilson and Jim Wilson; and her sisters Mary Sue Souther and Richardia Gibson.

Funeral services will be held at Saint Andrews by the Sea UMC on Thursday, August 3rd at 2:00pm and at Varnell UMC at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of the Lowcountry.