Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
Birmingham, Alabama - Michael Thomas was born on January 15, 1961, in Columbus, Georgia, to the late Mattie Emma Thomas Stafford and Arthur Thomas. Following the divorce of his parents, his mother later married Rev. G.H. Stafford in 1979, who lovingly embraced Michael as his own and became a devoted bonus father.
At an early age, Michael accepted Christ and joined St. Paul AME Church, where he began his spiritual journey. He received his edu cation through the Muscogee County School System in Columbus, Georgia, and later the Talladega County School System. He was a proud graduate of B.B. Comer Memorial High School, Class of 1979. Michael was especially gifted in mathematics, a talent that distinguished him during his school years.
After graduating high school, Michael answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He served honorably and was later discharged. Throughout his life, he held various jobs, demonstrating resilience and a strong work ethic until his health began to decline.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved son, Dustin Thomas, three brothers, and two sisters.
On Sunday, April 5, 2026, Michael peacefully departed this life. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving daughter, Destiney M. Thomas lives of San Diego, CA; four sisters, Gloria Thomas of Bir mingham, Alabama, Patricia (Donald) Williams of Columbus, Geor gia, Debra Huntley, and Sheryl (Gary) Spidell, both of Sylacauga, Alabama; three brothers, Rev. Charles Stafford and Rev. Albert (Tommie) Stafford, both of Columbus, Georgia, and Rev. Melvin Stafford of Phenix City, Alabama; one cherished granddaughter, Ariel Thomas of San Diego, CA; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will forever hold his memory in their hearts.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael Thomas, please visit our floral store.