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In memory of

Jeffery Thomas

Monterey, CA, USA

March 11, 1956 - January 24, 2020

Mar 11, 1956 - Jan 24, 2020

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Jeffery Thomas, succumbing to complications from a prolonged illness, passed away peacefully in Palo Alto VA Hospital on the morning of January 24, 2020 and went to his heavenly home.
Jeffery was born on March 11, 1956 in Birmingham, Alabama and grew up in Flint, Michigan with 4 younger siblings. He graduated from Northwestern High School’s, Class of 1973.
He was serving in the US Navy at Port Hueneme, Ca. in 1976 when he met and later married his wife, Candice. After leaving the Navy, he worked as a parole agent in Los Angeles for the State of California. Upon relocating to Monterey, he joined his wife in membership at Monterey Bay Christian Center, Seaside, CA.
In his last 10 years of life, despite failing health, he co-owned/operated the family business, Goodstuff at 605 Lighthouse Ave. in Monterey.
Jeffery as a diehard entrepreneur, also highly valued education and as a returning student earned a Masters Degree in Public Administration. As a sports enthusiast and prior athlete, he loved mentoring young athletes, instilling discipline and a love for the sport. Adored by his mentees, he cherished his volunteer position as a basketball coach at Monterey Bay Christian School which he held for several years while health permitted.
Soul food cuisine was also one of Jeffery’s life passions. Quizzing you about what you last cooked for dinner managed to work it’s way into every conversation! Regardless of how he felt, he would never decline a request to whip up some of his crowd-pleasing fried catfish, Louisiana gumbo or peach cobblers for family get togethers or Monterey Bay Christian Center special events. Jeffery’s dishes never disappointed because he took personal pride in his cooking and put a lot of love in every dish he prepared. His secret dream was to have an upscale soul food restaurant of his own.
In every area of his life, Jeff always found a way to share his faith in Christ and it was clear to all that faith was where his strength came from. His example of patient endurance in suffering inspired everyone he met.
Jeffery is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Candice; children, Jeffrey (Erica) Thornton; Teresa Thomas; Cameron Thomas; and Stephanie Thomas; sister, Chenise Holly; and brothers Michael Poole and Stephon Poole; grandchildren, Danyelle Thomas, Simeon, Shaianne and Delia Thornton; nieces, Chantel Mosley, Jovan, Carreala and TaShanta Holley; nephews, Eric Mosley and Aaron Poole.
Jeffery was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Rev. Faye Holley; grandmother, Inez Vale; and sister, Cathy Holley Mosley.
The Celebration of Life Service will be held at Monterey Bay Christian Center, 1184 Hilby Ave., Seaside, CA. 93955 on February 8, 2020 st 11:00 AM.

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