Charles Edward Thomas

On September 20, 1946, Charles Edward Thomas was born to Beatrice McClain and later adopted and raised by Alice McClain and J.C. Thomas in Shreveport, Louisiana. Charles is the third born of twelve siblings. 

Charles came to California in 1956. He attended Ralph Bunche Middle School and graduated from Compton High School. 

Charles joined the United States Army from 1967-1969. Shortly afterwards, he met and married Bertha Lee, and to this union was born an amazing, beautiful baby girl, who they affectionately named, "Carla Edwina" (his one and only child.)

Charles was baptized and received Jesus Christ as his Lord and Personal Savior. As an adult, he attended Unity of Christ Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor L.B. Haynes, where he first was ordained and served as Deacon. He later joined Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Reverend Albert Nicholas, where he served as Deacon and Pastor Armor Bearer for several years. 

In 2009, Charles met his better half, "Queen Mercedes." One year later, on April 29, 2010, they were joined in Holy Matrimony by Pastor Nicholas.

In 2018, Deacon Charles moved his membership to the Metropolitan Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Elton Johnson, where he served as a faithful member and Deacon until his illness began to fail. 

During Charles' lifetime he worked a variety of jobs. His main being a sharp dresser with a smooth walk and a lot of swag! 

On March 12, 2016, Deacon Charles Edward Thomas received his wings after a long fight. He did not go easy. He fought like a soldier until the end. 

Charles leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Mercedes; his seven sisters, Shirley, Alice, Elaine, Joyce, Mary, Denise, and Bonnie; and one brother, Ronnie; one daughter, Carla; two bonus daughters, Dianne and Cindy (Cedric); two bonus sons, Juwayne and Jemal; three grandchildren, Keiara, Erica, and Taylor; three great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, Church family and friends.