Submitted by: Dan Rich

Fred Elbert Thomas

Sept. 13, 1929 - July 28, 1997

South Bend Tribune 7/31/1997

Mr. Fred Elbert Thomas, 67, of South Scott Street, South Bend, Ind., passed away after an extended illness at 9:50 p.m. on Monday, July 28, in his residence. Mr. Thomas was born to the union of Nola and Rossie Thomas on Sept. 13, 1929, in Jackson, Tenn., and had lived in the South Bend area for 47 years. Fred was employed as a caretaker at the Riverview Cemetery, where he later retired.

He was united in Holy Matrimony to Essie Couesett in April of 1957. She preceded him in death in 1971. Leaving to cherish his memory are three daughters, Dolores Malone of South Bend, Cassandra (Glenn) Elli of Houston, Texas, and Melina (Carlos) Crayton of South Bend; three sons, Ira (Helene) Thomas, Timmy Thomas, Alonso Thomas, all of South Bend; two sisters, Lester Mae (Charles) Lancaster of South Bend, Virgie Trice of Harvey, S.C.; and by two brothers, R.C. Thomas and Melvin (Wilma) Thomas, all of South Bend.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday at Alford's Mortuary, with burial to follow at Riverview Cemetery. Friends may call one hour prior to services.