Ruth Sinclair Thomas

Betty Ruth Sinclair Thomas passed away peacefully at her home in Brunson on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. She was born on January 27, 1930, in Varnville, South Carolina. Ruth was the widow of Archie Clifford "Dick" Thomas. She was predeceased by her mother, Debbie Pope Sinclair; her father, Donald Eugene Sinclair; her sister, Beatrice Sinclair Bowers (John Laurie Bowers); and step son, Jim Thomas.

Ruth graduated from Varnville High School and went on to attend business school. A hardworking and dedicated professional, she served at Palmetto State Bank for 42 years, becoming Senior Vice President. Through her work, she supported and touched the lives of countless Hampton County residents.

Since 1971, Ruth was a faithful member of Sandy Run Baptist Church.

She is survived by her stepdaughters, Ginger Thomas Avant (Steve) of Hartsville and Jill Thomas Knight (George) of Brunson; step son's wife Blanche Thomas Gauld of Barnwell, SC; grandchildren, Justin Avant of Hartsville, SC, Jessie Avant Smith (Jeremy) of Charlotte, NC, Kelly Knight Lewis (Jesse) of Prosperity, SC, Parker Knight (Jennifer) of Atlanta, GA, and Gini Knight of Durham, NC, Michelle Thomas Draper of Centerville, MD, and Cheré Thomas Wallace of Ulmer, SC;  great-grandchildren, Rivers Avant, Tesla Avant, Fritz Lewis, Graylyn Lewis, Jordy Knight, Griffin Knight, and Luke Knight. She is also survived by two nephews, two nieces, grandnieces, grandnephews, and many cousins from the Sinclair family.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to her devoted caregivers: Helen White of 15 years, Deloris Williams, Delorise Young, Vernita "Tootsie" Walker, and Gloria Ann Busby, as well as nurse Mark Thompson, Mandy Harvey, and Chaplain Mike Williams of Amedisys Hospice.

Ruth was deeply blessed with special friends including David Williams, who called her every day; Emory Hiers, who sent her many many uplifting cards and notes; her devoted cousin Robert Sinclair; and dear friends Margie Harley, Miriam Ziegler, and Mary Ulmer, and especially her friend and employer, Charlie Laffitte.  While being evaluated by one of her hospice nurses, she was asked "Who is the President?" Without hesitation, she said "Why it's Charlie Laffitte!"

She found joy in tending to her yard and garden, caring for her many beloved dogs and cats, and maintaining her family's homeplace. Above all, she cherished her husband and best friend, Dick, with whom she shared 38 years, and her dearest mother, affectionately known as "Miss Debbie" or "Mama" to her nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held 11 AM Wednesday, April 23, 2025 in the Sandy Run Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the Sandy Run Cemetery.

A visitation will begin at 10 AM Wednesday and last until the hour of the service in the sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to the church, charity, or nonprofit organization of your choice.

Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home is assisting the Thomas family during this time.