LANCASTER, SC ~ Mrs. Ethel Virginia Hancock Thomas, age 99, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 25, 1927, in Mt. Croghan, SC, a daughter of the late Henry Franklin Hancock and the late Nellie Gulledge Hancock.

Mrs. Thomas was a loving and devoted woman who found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved shopping and rarely passed up an opportunity to visit her favorite stores, especially Roses and local thrift shops. She enjoyed sewing, collecting baby dolls, and singing, filling her days with creativity and happiness.

A talented cook, Mrs. Thomas took great pride in preparing meals for her family and friends. She was always willing to share her recipes, cooking advice, and techniques with anyone who asked. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and love.

Known affectionately as "MawMaw," she treasured every moment spent with her family and held a special place in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and loved ones. She also dearly loved her faithful dog, Buddy, whose companionship brought her comfort and joy. Mrs. Thomas will be remembered for her loving spirit, generous heart, and the many cherished memories she created with those she loved.

Mrs. Thomas is lovingly survived by her five children, Naye Dean Revels (Robert), Maude Dean Gainey, Sarah T. Walden, Bennie Thomas, and Roger Thomas (Angie); her grandchildren, Donald Revels, Marty Revels (Rebecca), Jay Revels (Nikki), Tammy Little, Sharon Lowery (Rick), Bobby Terry (Holly), Jim Walden (Heather), Sheila Russell (Mac), Byron Thomas, BJ Thomas, Tiffany Sacier (Steve), Bo Thomas, Daniel Thomas, Melissa Thomas, Melanie Gaddy (Matthew), Brandon Roberts (Abigial), John Hill, Teresa Barton (Bryan), Debra Medlin (Jimmy), and Jimmy Wayne Hill (Sophie); over 35 great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; her son-in-law, Harold Steen; her sister, Rachel Blackmon; and many special extended family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her first husband, James Daniel Thomas; her second husband, Walker Barrett; two daughters, Rebecca “Becky” Steen, and Faye Dean Knight; her son, James “Jimmy” Thomas; her grandson, Rod Thomas; her great-granddaughter, Gracie Revels; and two sons-in-law, Ray Gainey, and Jim Walden.

The Celebration of Life Funeral Service for Mrs. Thomas will be held at 3:00pm Sunday, June 28, 2026 at Victory Worship Center officiated by Pastor Brian Barton and Pastor Alexander and Maxine Gaddy. Burial will follow at Lancaster Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends from 2:00pm to 3:00pm, one hour prior to the service in the church sanctuary. In lieu of flowers, for those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.