Bishop Daniel F. Thomas

     Bishop Daniel F. Thomas, age 99, of Dover, Delaware, peacefully entered eternal rest on July 9, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. Born on June 1, 1927 in Thomasville, Georgia, Bishop Thomas was the beloved son of the late Annie Mae Cutts -Thomas and Daniel Thomas. 

     As a young boy, Bishop Thomas worked in the cotton fields, where he developed the strong work ethic that would shape his life’s journey.

     Over the years Bishop Thomas held many occupations, including store owner, dump truck driver, steelworker, and school bus driver. He faithfully served as a school bus driver with Matthew Smith Bus Services until his retirement in 2018 at the remarkable age of 93.

     Above all, Bishop Thomas was a devoted man of God whose greatest joy was sharing the Gospel with his congregation, family, friends, and all that crossed his path. He accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior in the early 1970s and dedicated the remainder of his life to faithfully serving God whole heartly. As a visionary leader in ministry, Bishop Thomas founded Solid Rock Baptist Church (New Castle, DE), and Tabernacle of Faith (Dover, DE). He also worshipped and ministered at Mount Zion Gospel Church of Deliverance (Wilmington, DE), and M.F. Chase in (Dover, DE). His unwavering faith, compassionate spirit, and commitment to God's work touched countless lives.

     In 1954, Bishop Thomas moved north to Chester, Pennsylvania and later settled in New Castle, Delaware in 1962. After the passing of his beloved wife, he made Dover, Delaware his home in 1996. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and spiritual father to many. 

     He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Viola Herring Thomas, with whom he shared more than 50 beautiful years of marriage. Though her passing left a profound void, her memory remained forever treasured in his heart.

     He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 31 wonderful years, Elder Lois Thomas, whose love and faithful companionship brought him great joy.

     From his union with Sister Viola Herring Thomas, he leaves his loving children: Donald F. Thomas (New Castle, DE), Floyd Thomas (Wilmington, DE), Charlie J. Thomas (Brenda) (Hampton, VA), James B. Thomas (Wilmington, DE), Elder Daniel O. Thomas (Deborah) (Smyrna, DE).

    He also leaves his daughter-in-law Linda Thomas wife of late Woodrow L. Thomas From his union with Elder Lois Thomas, he leaves his beloved stepchildren: Thyess Melton (Princess Anne, MD), Joseph Lewis (Wilmington, DE), Ralph Melton (Millie) (Newark, NY), Terrell Lewis (Ann) (Wilmington, DE), Leonard Melton (Newark, NY), Christopher Melton (Glendale, CA).

     Bishop Thomas was blessed with a large and loving family, including numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, spiritual God children, and many dear friends. He held a special bond with his devoted granddaughter and caregiver Regina Thomas (Thomas Walker) who’s loving care meant so much to him. He was also lovingly supported by Lisa Rivera (Dover, DE) and Pastor Deborah Palmer (Harrington, DE) of Bayada.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, children, and grandchildren: Annie Mae Thomas and Daniel Thomas; his children, Woodrow L. Thomas and Viola Mae Thomas; his siblings, Lugenia Thomas Dykes (Wilbert), Eugene Thomas (Johnnie Lee), Woodrow Thomas (Esther), and Annie Lee Thomas (Henry); and his beloved grandchildren, Michael Thomas, Daveion Thomas, Fatima Moore, and Seth Thomas.

     Bishop Thomas was known as a humble servant, faithful leader, and God-fearing man who led by example. He never hesitated to extend a helping hand to those in need and was deeply committed to serving his community, encouraging young people, and strengthening families through faith. He enjoyed traveling, sightseeing, and spending precious time with those he loved most.

     His legacy is one of unwavering faith, dedicated service, unconditional love, and steadfast perseverance. The lives he touched, the churches he established, and the family he cherished will continue to honor his memory for generations to come.

     "Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23

     Though Bishop Daniel F. Thomas has departed from this earthly life, his faith, wisdom, and love will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

     A funeral service will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, July 31, 2026 at Canaan Baptist Church, 3011 New Castle Avenue, New Castle, DE 19720 where there will be a viewing from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Burial will follow in Gracelawn Memorial Park.  Online condolences may be made via www.pippinfuneralhome.com. 

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