Billy Thomas

Billy (Bill) G. Thomas, 74, of Clarksville, went to his heavenly home on January 10, 2014 after a courageous battle with lung cancer. In his final days, he was surrounded by his loving family as they prayed, comforted him and reminisced about the past.

Bill was born in Burkesville, Kentucky on September 17, 1939 to the late Duke Cordell and Edna Jewell Thomas. He was raised in Jeffersonville, where he graduated from Jeffersonville High School in 1958. He spent the majority of his adult life living in Clarksville. Bill was an avid sports enthusiast with a passion for basketball, baseball and softball. He was able to share this love of sports with his twin sons. He played, coached, and managed many sports teams over the years throughout Southern Indiana. Bill was employed by Cissell Manufacturing Company before retiring in 2002 after 43 years of service.

After retirement, Bill spent the majority of his time with his family watching sporting events and supporting his grandchildren's many sports activities. He also enjoyed making trips to Pikeville, Kentucky to watch basketball and baseball events where his son coached. He enjoyed helping others by volunteering to do odd jobs for friends and relatives.

Bill is survived by his twin sons, Dave Thomas (Kathy) and Dan Thomas (Gayle) and his grandchildren, Chris Thomas of Nashville, TN, Whitney Thomas of New Albany, Andrew, Brooke and Sam Thomas of Louisville, step-grandchildren, Jason and Josh Gipson of Pikeville, KY; and a sister, Geneva York of Burkesville, KY. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James Thomas; and his sister Nelda Thomas Scull.

Visitation will be from 12 to 3 PM Saturday, January 18, 2014 at Newcomer Funeral Home (3309 Ballard Ln., New Albany). His Memorial Service will be at 3 PM Saturday in the chapel at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society (701 W. Muhammed Ali Boulevard, Louisville, KY 40203).