AMERICUS — Mr. Ralph Newton Thomas, 81, died peacefully on Monday, April 27, 2015. He died at his residence early Monday morning. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2015, at First Baptist Church. The Rev. Keith Parks and the Rev. Rusty Mauldin will officiate.

Mr. Thomas was born March 3, 1934, in Hoboken, Ga. He was the son of the late Robert Dillworth Thomas and Willie McCurdy Upton. He earned a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in education from the University of Georgia.

He served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 until 1956. He was an electronic and drafting instructor, as well as an evening coordinator, at South Georgia Technical College. He retired from South Georgia Technical College after 30 years of service. In his spare time, Mr. Ralph enjoyed traveling and sharp shooting. He was a talented wood worker and knife maker. He was a member of the Civitan Club. He was also a member of First Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Betty Jean Thomas of Americus; two daughters and sons-in-law, Tina Thomas Mills and Darrel Mills of Thomasville, Ga., and Tami Thomas Sims and Don Sims of Port Orchard, Wash.; one brother, Glenn Frank Thomas of Brunswick, Ga.; three grandchildren, Banner Thomas Driskell, Cale Sims and Dillon Sims; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Billy Thomas, Upton Thomas and Robert Delano Thomas, and one sister, Willene Thomas Ham.

Memorial contributions may be made to Phoebe Sumter Hospice of 126 U.S. Highway 280, Americus GA 31719. Aldridge Funeral Services of 612 Rees Park, Americus, Ga., is in charge of arrangements. To sign the online guest book and express your condolences to the family go to www.aldridgefuneralservices.com