William Thomas, Jr.

William “Brother” Thomas, Jr., 93, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at Van Rensselaer Manor with his loving family by his side. William was born in Greeleyville, SC to the late William Thomas, Sr. and Maryann (Dukes) Thomas. He attended school in Williamsburg County.

He met the true love of his life, Daisy Nesmith at church in 1950. They relocated to Troy, NY in 1951 and were married shortly after. He was a devoted husband for over 74 years. They were blessed with two girls, Loretta and Mary and one son, Edward.

He served his country in the US Army for several years, which included active duty during the Korean War.

Brother was a member and steward for many years at Fifth Avenue A.M.E. Zion Church. He worked at GE for over 20 years before retiring. He loved to work! He was once given a certificate for working 575 overtime hours without refusing a shift.

When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed spending time with his family and traveling with Daisy. Some of their frequent destinations included Canada, Delaware, Florida, and of course, home in South Carolina. His daily routine started by reading the Troy Record. His favorite tv shows were The Price Is Right, The People’s Court, Wheel of Fortune, “Steve Harvey” (Family Feud), and the news. He loved to talk about politics and world events. He also enjoyed fishing trips with his friends. In between his shows, he made sure he played his numbers. He would often be seen sitting on the front porch in nice weather. He was unofficially known as the Mayor of 9th St. Mr. Thomas had no problem calling you out for littering, not sweeping up your leaves, or not shoveling your sidewalk. He and Daisy took pride in their Community Gardens. They were also recognized by TRIP for the Clean Community Award. He treated every day as a gift. He celebrated by sipping a Budweiser or some corn liquor that someone brought back from their travels down south. On special occasions, he enjoyed his top-of-the-line liquor. Family and friends were always welcome to stop by.

William is survived by his wife Daisy Nesmith Thomas of Troy, NY, Loretta Cox of Albany, NY, Mary (Ronnie) Gardner of Schenectady, NY, and Edward Thomas of Troy, NY. He leaves behind his 10 grandchildren: Demetria Canty, Quentin Canty, Latasha (Al-Malik) Gardner, Robbie (William) Gardner, Michael Gardner, Cameron Gardner, Savette Gardner, Lamont Thomas, Rashad Thomas, and Portia Venson. He is also survived by 23 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

William is also predeceased by his siblings Alice Thomas, Florie Bell (Neace) Canty, Lourie (Alvin) Hilton, Mae Frances (Sylvester) Harrison, Robert (Alberta) Thomas, Tommy (Phyllis) Thomas, John Thomas, and James Edward Gamble Sr., and Roosevelt “Bill” Thomas.

Calling hours will be held at Fifth Avenue AME Zion Church, 189 5th Ave, Troy, NY 12180, on Monday November 10, 2025 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A funeral service will be held Monday November 10, 2025 at 11:00 am at Fifth Avenue AME Zion Church. The Burial service will be at Elmwood Hill Cemetery Association, Troy, New York. Repass will immediately follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Fifth Avenue AME Zion Church.

To share a memory of William or leave a special message for his family, visit the guest book below.