Inell Thomas

 In loving Memory of Inell Thomas 

 February 13,1937 -January 3,2025

 Inell Thomas, a beloved community servant, and beacon of kindness, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2025, at the age of 87.

 Born to Allie and Katie McGuire on February 13, 1937, Inell grew up in Watkinsville, Georgia, where she attended the historic Rosenwald School. Inell Thomas accepted Christ at a young age and was member at Walnut Grove Baptist Church in Oconee County Georgia. She received her bachelor's degree in education from Savannah State College. She taught 3rd grade briefly in Hartwell, Georgia.

Inell married the love of her life George Thomas and they moved to Alcoa, TN. She was a devoted wife who shared a beautiful journey of love and commitment with her husband George. Together, they built a life filled with shared dreams, challenges, and countless cherished memories. Their bond endured until his passing in 1995.Their marriage was a testament to devotion, faith, and mutual respect.

She was a faithful member of Pilgrim Temple and Clouds of Faith. She later joined Rest Haven Baptist Church. She was on the usher board for over 40 years. It was said she had ushered in every church in Blount and Knox County. She was a member of the Sunday school, Heart to Heart women's ministry and one of the oldest members of the Knoxville Baptist District Association.

Inell Thomas was a devoted caregiver to her brother, Robert McGuire, for nearly 20 years. She provided him with constant care, support, and companionship, ensuring his needs were met with grace and compassion. Her dedication to family was further evident in the support she received from her sister, Ida Fambrough, who would visiting and assist Inell in caring for their brother when needed. Inell's role as a caregiver remains a testament to her extraordinary kindness and commitment to those she loved.

After experiencing a brief illness in 2018, Inell Thomas moved to Statham, Georgia, to live with her sister, Lessie Mack. In a beautiful display of love and devotion, Lessie became Inell’s caregiver, providing her with unwavering support and compassion during her later years. Lessie faithfully tended to Inell’s needs until her passing, that allowed Inell to live her final years surrounded by love and family.

She is survived stepdaughter: Gaynell (Jimmy) Ferguson of Alcoa Tenn, Siblings: Lessie (Otis) Mack of Statham, GA, Ida Louise (Richard) of Decatur, GA, brother: Wylie (Sarah) McGuire of Statham, GA, Walter McGuire of Statham, GA, George (Barbara) McGuire of Duluth, GA. Step Grandsons: Shannon (Kisha) Zachery of Alcoa Tennessee, Gene (Tracy) Mays of Cincinnati Ohio, Step Granddaughter: Iris Aletha of Cincinnati Ohio. Special Niece and Nephews: Carloyn (Ron) Smith of Athens, Ga who faithfully visited her at the nursing home, Cindy Fambrough of Morrow, GA, Kathy Thomas of Los Angeles California, Ahmad Thomas of Alcoa Tenn and Eric Thomas of Los Angeles California. 

Special Friends: Jimmy (Sheri) McRae of Alcoa, TN, Pedro (Mary) Williams of Alcoa, TN. Host of Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and friends. 

Inell leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith that will be cherished by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and church family, who are grateful for the time they shared with her.

Inell Thomas touched countless lives, and her light will continue to shine through the many hearts she inspired. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Funeral service will be Saturday January 18, 2025 at Rest Haven Missionary Baptist Church in Alcoa at 12:00 p.m. with interment to follow at Cedar Lawn Cemetery. Body may be viewed from noon – 6:00 p.m. on Friday at Foothills Funeral Home. www.foothillsfh.com