Gordon Elliott “Gordy” Thomas

Gordon Elliott “Gordy” Thomas, a resident of Dothan, died Sunday, February 19, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family. He was 72.

Gordy Thomas was born on October 28, 1950, in Moody Hospital, Dothan, Alabama. He spent his formative years in the Cloverdale neighborhood and attended Cloverdale United Methodist Church. He attended Dothan High School, participating in the Madrigal Choir, marching band, pep club, and graduating in 1970. Gordy married Mary Ann Peel on July 13, 1974. They lived a relatively care-free and quiet life for 10 years – enjoying trips to Auburn football games, volunteering with Dothan Civitans (Gordy would be honored with Civitan of the Year during this period), and First Baptist Church activities. The “honeymoon phase” lasted until the birth of Evan and Elliott (twins; 1984), Garrett (1985), and Gavin (1991). With a house full of rambunctious boys, Gordy’s best shot at focusing their energy and skills was through youth sports. He adored coaching kids in a variety of sports – focusing more on inclusivity, fairness, and fun. His passion for coaching earned him a spot on the Board of Directors of the Dothan American League at Doug Tew ballpark where he eventually served as President. Gordy had an unwavering devotion to Mary Ann - his high school sweetheart, lifelong love, and devoted caregiver. He adored his family – especially his mother, Helen Lee Thomas. He found immense joy in watching his sons follow in his footsteps via their involvement in the arts: First Baptist Church Choirs; DHS Theatrical Productions, Marching/Concert Bands, & Show Choir; Belmont University performances, Auburn University Singers, and AUBIE the Tiger! His talent and skills were also used in service to the Moonlighters Band, FBC’s orchestra and Broadcast Ministry until he was rendered homebound. Those who knew Gordy have often stated, “He never met a stranger, and he would give them the shirt off his back when he sensed the need”. He will be remembered for his kind, gentle spirit, hearty laugh, musical talents, sense of humor, and his infectious smile.

Gordy was predeceased by his parents, Raimon G. Thomas and Helen Lee Thomas, his brother Ronald Lee “Ron” Thomas; parents-in-law, Louie Samford “Sam” Peel and Mary “Evelyn” Peel, his brother-in-law Arnett Peel.

Surviving relatives include his wife, Mary Ann Peel Thomas, sons Evan (Lee Bryan), Elliott (Ryan Hemby), Nashville, Tennessee, Garrett (Jordan), Dothan, and Gavin (Anna), Slocomb, Alabama. His grandchildren Savannah, Mikalyn, and EmoryKate Thomas; Tripp, Aaron, and Jaylynn King; a sister, Starla Hardy (Tim), and a brother Pat Thomas (Cindy), of Dothan; sister-in-law Gayle Gamble Thomas of Abbeville; uncles Sherwood Thomas (Betty), Dr. John Thomas (Mary); and aunts Joan Thomas, Beth Lee, and Doratha Howell; sistersin-law, Lori Peel Peterson (Mike), June Peel Gray, several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews are also survivors. Serving as active and honorary pallbearers are Brandon Hardy, Brent Hardy, Tom Renshaw, Lucius Renshaw, Mike Peterson, Ben Peterson, & Garrett Thomas.

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604