Charles Stuart Thomas

Charles Stuart Thomas of Deland, Florida passed away on September 29, 2025 at the age of 93. He was born May 29, 1932 in Neponset, Illinois, son of Clarence and Esther Thomas. He spent his childhood in Bradford, Illinois.

After graduating from Bradford Township High School in 1950 he joined the United States Air force to serve his country during the Korean War.

Charles and Vada Aloise Wahlberg from Sherrard, Illinois were married August 24, 1957 in Rock Island, Illinois. They moved to Watseka, Illinois where they had two sons, Michael and Keith.

Charles worked in the insurance industry, both in Illinois and Michigan. He earned his bachelor degree from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also taught insurance at Aquinas.

After retiring, Charles and Vada moved to Lebanon, Tennessee and later to Avon Park, Florida. They were actively involved with the church everywhere they lived. Charles was creative and passionate about woodcarving and woodworking. He carved decorative spoons, Santa Clauses and various other figures that were painted by Vada. He was involved with local woodcarving clubs as well as participating in craft fairs. He loved teaching and was a regular at the JC Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, North Carolina.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Esther Thomas; two brothers, James and Dick Thomas; and son, Michael Thomas.

Charles is survived by his wife Vada Thomas of Deland, Florida and his son Keith Thomas of Deland, Florida.

The family would like to thank the Alliance Community in Deland for the care and compassion they showed our loved one in his final days.