Michael Wayne Thomas – age 66 of Knoxville entered into the presence of the Lord, who he faithfully served all his life, on Tuesday, October 11, 2022, after a courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia. Michael was born in Hopkinsville, KY on July 30, 1956. He graduated from MTSU in 1978 with a degree in music. After being called into the ministry, he earned a double Master’s Degree in music and ministry from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Michael served in various churches before planting New Vision Baptist Church in Murfreesboro, TN in 1988 where he served as Senior Pastor for fourteen years. He spent the last seventeen years of his ministry serving on staff at Grace Baptist Church in Knoxville, TN.
Michael was preceded in death by parents, Homer McGee Thomas and Agnus Jeanette Thomas; and late wife, Janice Fay Thomas.
He is survived by wife of 17 years, Betsy Bailey Thomas; son, Bryan (Amber) Thomas; step-sons, Drew (Kristy) Longmire, Tony (Lauren) Longmire; daughter, Melissa (Will) Whitlock; step-daughter, Rebekah (Justin) Griffin; brother, Ricky Thomas; and 10 amazing grandchildren.
The family will receive friends 4:00-6:30 PM on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, at Grace Baptist Church followed by the funeral service at 6:30 PM with Dr. Bobby Lewis, Jr. and Pastor Bryan Thomas officiating. Family and friends will meet 2:45 PM on Thursday at Greenwood Cemetery for a 3:00 PM graveside service. Donations may be made to Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Road SW, Lilbum, GA 30047, Lbda.org. Arrangements by Bridges Funeral Home, 5430 Rutledge Pike, 865-523-4999. www.bridgesfuneralhome.com
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Michael Wayne Thomas July 30 1956 October 11 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Knoxville, Province: T-N