About Us

Bruce Thomas has dedicated his life to serving his community with unwavering compassion and expertise. As an integral part of the Thomas Funeral Home, Bruce upholds a proud family legacy established by his father, J.W. Thomas, who, alongside his mother Evelyn Thomas, founded the funeral home in 1945.

Bruce graduated from West Georgia College and later pursued his mortuary degree at the John A. Gupton Mortuary College to become a licensed funeral director and embalmer. 

With over six decades of experience, Bruce is a pillar of his community. He's known for his quiet and attentive nature, always lending a sympathetic ear to those in need. His deep-rooted connection to the local area is evident in his strong appreciation for the small community he calls home.

Bruce's values extend beyond his professional life. He is an active member of the First Baptist Church of Calhoun, finding solace and inspiration in his faith. He is a dedicated husband and father; he takes joy in his marriage to Sue Ellen Harbour and in his three children: Sarah, Gregory, and Stephanie. As a proud grandfather to August and Graham, Bruce embraces the role of family patriarch with humility and love.

One of Bruce's most cherished accomplishments is seeing his son, Gregory, following in his footsteps, poised to carry forward the Thomas family legacy in the funeral industry. This passing of the torch reflects the enduring values and dedication to service that Bruce has exemplified throughout his career.

Alvin Long is a stalwart figure in his native Calhoun, embodying decades of thoughtful and compassionate service to both bereaved families and the broader Gordon County community. His reputation is one of care, professionalism, and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on those he has served.

A proud alumnus of Calhoun High School, Alvin's educational journey laid the foundation for his career. He furthered his expertise at the Gupton-Jones College of Mortuary Science and completed the University of Tennessee's Postmortem Eye Enucleation Program. His commitment to excellence is reflected in his membership in the esteemed Academy of Graduate Embalmers of Georgia.

Joining the staff of Thomas Funeral Home in July 1991, Alvin swiftly became a beacon of compassionate care and unwavering professionalism. With decades of experience in funeral directing, he offers guidance and support to families from the first call to the final internment. Bruce Thomas praises Alvin's commitment, saying, "We are so grateful for Alvin's commitment to our families at Thomas Funeral Home and are proud of his achievements in our community."

Alvin's contributions extend well beyond his role in the funeral service industry. He served as the Chairman of the Gordon County Board of Commissioners for an impressive 12 years, leaving an impactful imprint on local governance. His dedication to education led him to a position on the Calhoun City Schools' Board of Education from 2014 to 2017. His commitment to community service is evident through his involvement with numerous local organizations, including the Calhoun/Gordon County Library Board, the Gordon County Board of Health, the Gordon Hospital Foundation Board, and the Board of Directors of the Gordon County Historical Society, among others. His participation in various Chamber of Commerce committees showcases his dedication to the growth and vitality of his community.

Alvin's devotion to service is shared by his beloved wife, Patricia "Pat" Hammontree Long, a Registered Nurse at Gordon Hospital. Married nearly five decades, the couple holds membership at Antioch Baptist Church and attends services at Heritage Baptist Church. Their family includes two daughters, Leslie (married to Alex) Greeson and Niki (married to Billy) Smith, and they proudly embrace their roles as grandparents to Victoria Roper, Annabelle Roper, Lance Mauldin, and Madison Smith.

Alvin’s life is a testament to the impact one person can make through compassion, dedication, and community engagement. His legacy is not only woven into the fabric of the funeral service industry but is also deeply rooted in the growth and well-being of his beloved Gordon County.

Paige discovered her calling at Thomas Funeral Home through an internship facilitated by Gordon Central High School. Since becoming a part of the Thomas Funeral Home family in 2010, Paige has been the driving force behind maintaining an impeccably organized and efficient office, and often serves as the first point of contact for grieving families. 

Paige's passion lies in contributing to the well-being of others, a sentiment that aligns perfectly with her role. The community at large appreciates her warm and gentle demeanor, creating a welcoming environment for those seeking comfort during challenging times. Bruce acknowledges Paige's prowess in administrative tasks and her ability to seamlessly engage with families. He notes, "Paige is so masterful in her administrative projects but is always welcoming to our families. We are so grateful to have her."

Outside her professional pursuits, Paige's life is enriched by her loving family. She is happily married to Seth Roland, and their home is brightened by the presence of their two daughters, Zoe and Alice. When not tending to her responsibilities, Paige finds solace and joy in exploring new destinations through travel and creating lasting memories by attending concerts with her friends.

Paige’s journey is one marked by dedication, compassion, and a genuine commitment to her community and profession. Her role at Thomas Funeral Home extends beyond administrative duties, sharing to a genuine desire to provide solace and support to those in need. As she continues to excel in her multifaceted role and enjoy life's pleasures with her family and friends, Paige's impact resonates far and wide.

Madison Healy became a part of the Thomas Funeral Home team in January of 2023, embarking on a meaningful journey as an apprentice funeral director and embalmer. With a compassionate heart, Madison serves as a comforting and informative presence for families grappling with loss. Her dedication to creating lasting memorials, both in digital and physical forms, showcases her commitment to ensuring families' legacies are honored with the utmost care and respect.

Madison's passion for her role is evident in her willingness to go the extra mile, providing families with support that extends beyond expectations. As she continues to grow in her career, Madison envisions a future marked by a deep and lasting impact within the funeral service industry.

Amidst her professional pursuits, Madison treasures her role as a mother to Addison, finding joy and fulfillment in nurturing her child. A love for the outdoors calls to her, providing a space for relaxation and rejuvenation amid life's demands.

Madison's story is one of dedication, compassion, and a deep commitment to honoring lives with grace. As she navigates her journey in funeral service, her impact on grieving families and the community at large is sure to leave a lasting imprint of care and compassion.

Gregory Thomas is proud to carry on the legacy of the Thomas family's commitment to serving the Calhoun-Gordon County Community in the funeral business. He represents the third generation to contribute to this enduring tradition, solidifying his place as a steward of compassion and care.

In 2017, earned a business degree from Flagler College, equipping him with the skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to the family business. As the business administrator of Thomas Funeral Home, Gregory plays a pivotal role in maintaining its status as an independently and privately-owned small business that directly serves the Calhoun community. This dedication to preserving the institution's integrity and personal touch is essential and unique to the Gordon County Community.

Bruce expresses immense pride in his son's involvement. He shares, "I'm so proud that my son has come to work with us. Thomas Funeral Home will always strive to serve the community, and my son's application of his business degree to our small business ensures that we will continue to serve our community with innovative, professional practices."

In addition to his professional pursuits, Gregory married Julia Douglas Thomas in 2020, and in 2023, they welcomed their son Graham. Together, Gregory and Julia find joy in nurturing their garden, a shared endeavor that speaks to their appreciation for growth and sustenance.

Gregory Thomas is an embodiment of tradition, innovation, and a deep commitment to community. As he seamlessly integrates his business acumen with the values of the Thomas Funeral Home, he contributes to the preservation of a legacy that has brought comfort and support to countless families over the years.

Ken's life journey is deeply rooted in Gordon County, where he was born and raised, and where he attended Red Bud High School. His pursuit of education led him to the Kentucky School of Mortuary Science in Louisville, KY, where he graduated in 1969 with a degree in mortuary science. Upon returning to Calhoun, he found more than he had anticipated - he found love in Judy Padgett of Oakman, GA, and the two were married in 1970.

After dedicating 30 years to ConAgra Poultry, Ken transitioned back to his passion for funeral service. For the past 15 years, he has been an invaluable member of the Thomas Funeral Home team. His innate kindness and cheerful demeanor provide solace and comfort to all who have the privilege of interacting with him. Ken finds fulfillment in connecting with a diverse range of individuals from across the county, offering his unwavering support to families during their times of grief.

Ken's active involvement in the Calhoun-Gordon County community is a testament to his commitment to making a positive impact. He serves as both a Past Master and Secretary of Coosawattee Masonic Lodge #306 at Pine Chapel. Additionally, he and his beloved wife Judy have dedicated over 30 years to being cherished members of Calhoun First Presbyterian Church, where they both serve as elders.

Among Ken's greatest joys in life is his role as a proud father, grandfather, and great grandfather. With six grandchildren, he finds immense satisfaction in nurturing the next generation. His son, Alex, contributes to the community as a fireman in Gordon County and a paramedic in Murray County. Ken's love for the outdoors and his grandchildren shines through in his shared fishing and camping adventures, and he takes great pride in witnessing their growth into remarkable young adults.

Ken's narrative is a tale of lifelong dedication, love, and community service. As he continues to touch lives through his work, his faith, and his role as a cherished family figure, his legacy will undoubtedly inspire those around him.

As a third generation of Thomas Funeral Home, Sarah’s role with the family business varies to meet the needs of the business. 

While Sarah's role at Thomas Funeral Home often involves remote work, she readily steps in when Bruce requires an extra pair of hands, contributing her skills and expertise to the family business. In recent times, her contributions have played a pivotal role in revitalizing and modernizing both the digital and physical presence of Thomas Funeral Home.

As a resident of East Atlanta, Sarah finds herself living just moments away from her Grandmother Evelyn's childhood home, fostering a sense of deep connection to her roots. 

Sarah's story is one of continuous growth, community engagement, and a profound dedication to her family's legacy. As she blends her legal acumen with her commitment to the family business and community, she looks forward to the exciting and new changes to the family business.

An alumnus of Gilmer High School, Michael's journey has been marked by a commitment to both education and service. His path led him to graduate in 2012 with a degree in Mortuary Science from Jefferson State Community College, solidifying his dedication to the funeral service industry. Michael's expertise extends to being a licensed life agent, funeral director, and embalmer, allowing him to offer a comprehensive range of services.

One of Michael's most notable qualities is his gentle and empathetic nature. As a skilled and caring listener, he excels in assisting families with advance funeral arrangements. His expertise also extends to being a licensed life insurance broker, collaborating closely with both Thomas Funeral Home and Homesteaders Life Insurance. Amid even the most challenging times, Michael's quick wit and ability to lighten the atmosphere with a well-timed joke offer comfort and a moment of relief.

Michael's personal life is grounded in his local community. He and his wife, Kirbi, have chosen Elijay, Georgia, as their home, and their presence is felt as active members of River Hill Baptist Church. Their shared values and commitment to their faith have woven a strong foundation for their family.

Michael's journey is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and capacity to bring comfort to those he serves. With his thoughtful approach, dedication to families, and warm sense of humor, he has earned a special place in the hearts of those he interacts with.

Corey's roots trace back to Cartersville, GA, where he attended high school and proudly graduated in 2000. His journey then led him onto a spiritual path, becoming an ordained Baptist minister. Through the years, Corey has served with dedication in various pastoral roles, including youth pastor, worship pastor, and senior pastor across multiple churches in the Northwest Georgia region. As a compassionate chaplain, Corey is driven by a deep desire to bring hope and comfort to families during moments of challenge and transition.

Beyond his spiritual calling, Corey is a vibrant musician, exhibiting his talents as a skilled drummer, bassist, guitarist, and pianist. He draws inspiration from notable figures like Michael English, Eric Clapton, Nathan East, and an array of other accomplished artists. His musical gifts serve as a means to connect with others and uplift spirits.

Corey's personal journey is intertwined with his enduring love story. He married his middle school sweetheart, Becca Beach Forsyth, and their unwavering bond has thrived for 13 remarkable years. Their shared commitment to family is evident through their four cherished children. As a family, they find solace and connection through their attendance at Heritage Baptist Church.

Corey's narrative is one of faith, music, and unwavering love. His dedication to both his spiritual and musical passions reflects his innate desire to inspire, uplift, and bring comfort to those around him.

Craig Miles is an empathetic chaplain and dedicated bereavement minister, whose compassionate approach to pastoral care has touched the lives of numerous individuals and families. With a heartfelt commitment to his vocation, he extends unwavering support to the terminally ill and their loved ones, offering solace and guidance during their most challenging times. 

Having been ordained as a minister, Craig brings a wealth of spiritual insight and wisdom to his role, drawing from his extensive experience as a former children's minister and pastor within various congregations across North Georgia. Additionally, his time as a missionary with the North American Mission Board has instilled in him a profound understanding of diverse communities and their unique spiritual needs.

Craig’s devotion to serving others transcends his professional duties, as he selflessly extends his kindness and support to families during visitations and funerals at Thomas Funeral Home.