Doris Nell Holder Thomas gained her heavenly wings on January 19, 2024.

She is preceded in death by her children, Pam Thomas Thornton and Tim Thomas, son in law Mike Thornton, her husband, Ralph Thomas, her siblings, Bernice Cook and Peggy Lowe, and parents, Mr. and Mrs. B.B. Holder.

She is survived by her three grandchildren, Abby Hairston (Jeff), Brody Thomas (Audrey), and Carly Pierce (Payton), and her daughter in law, Lisa Roper Thomas, as well as three great-grand children, Jack and Sam Hairston and Chase Pierce; one brother, J.W. Holder and a host of nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews, who were all very special to her.

Born September 11, 1930, Doris spent all of her life in Jasper County. She married Ralph Thomas in July of 1951. Doris had a servant's heart for her small community of Hero, her Jasper County citizens and her Mt. Vernon church family. Doris loved to travel and sing in the choir. She spent her time working in her yard and talking to her family, friends and neighbors on the phone. Doris never met a stranger and was famous for her dressing recipe for those who knew her. She was prepared with coffee and a dessert for a conversation with anyone who knocked on the door. Most importantly she loved the Lord. For sixteen years, she served as the Chancery Clerk for the people of Jasper County, and all of her life, she's been "The Mayor" of Hero. She was loved by all but she loved her family the most.

A service celebrating her life will begin at 11:00 am on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church. Rev. Steve Pouncey and Rev. William Savell will officiate the services. Music will be provided by Mr. Roger Estes, Mr. William Savell, and Mrs. Cindy Williams. Burial will follow in Mt. Vernon Baptist Cemetery under the direction of Newton County Funeral Home.

A time of visiting with family and friends will commence from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm on Monday, January 22, 2024 at Newton County Funeral Home – South, and also one hour prior to the services at the church on Tuesday.

Pallbearers include Doug Holder, Shane Cook, Justin Rhodes, Stephen Rhodes, Derek Goodman and Scott Goodman.

The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to the staff of North Pointe in Meridian for their continuous care and love to Doris in her last years.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made be to Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, or to a charity of your choosing.