LELAND — Mike Thomas, 63, former chief of the Leland Volunteer Fire Department, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016, in his home surrounded by his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Leatha Winters Thomas.
Born in Durham, Jan. 21, 1953, a son of the late Seth L. and Betty Rebecca Andrews Thomas, he had been employed by Gregory Poole Equipment Company in Leland, for 25 years until his retirement. He had been a member of the Leland Volunteer Fire Department for 30 years, serving as assistant chief for many years and as chief for eight years.
Besides his wife Leatha, he is survived by his sons, Kevin Thomas and his wife, Sara, of Wake Forest, and Jeremy Thomas and his wife Yevon of Leland; his grandchildren, Mackenzie, Everett, Eleanor, Ellison, and Evan; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Pat Neely, and his brother Page Thomas.
His visitation will be Wednesday from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Leland Volunteer Fire Station, 1004 Village Road in Leland. A memorial service will begin at 6 p.m. followed by dinner.
Wilmington Funeral & Cremation Village Road Chapel, 525 Village Road, Leland, is assisting the family.