Today, we gather with heavy hearts to honor and celebrate the life of a remarkable mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Mavis Martin Thomas. As we reflect on her journey, we find comfort in the memories she left behind and the profound impact she made on each of our lives.

Born on February 3, 1938, in Port Maria Jamaica, Mavis Martin Thomas was the second of seven children to Maisie Brown and George Martin. Although George was her biological father, she was raised by Noel Martin her father figure. Noel played the role so well, no one knew he wasn't her biological father. She attended school in Port Maria, St. Mary and was an avid attendee to the Emmanuel Baptist Church. Mavis was blessed with seven children, namely, Ray Thompson, Joan Burford, Lancelot Thompson, James Vassell, Dawn Vassell, Phillip Skyers, and Shellyann Skyers. Family was the cornerstone of her life. Hence, Mavis worked diligently at different jobs to ensure her family was fed. Her first job was a receptionist at the Palm Beach Hotel, followed by her job as a conductress on the Northern Queen Bus. This job made her notorious and cause her to build many lasting friendships and relationships with people who would traverse that route.
Mavis lived a life filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. She loved many things, but her love for wrestling was quite evident, as you could hear the excitement as she enjoyed her favorite sport. From her earliest days, she exhibited tenacity and resilience that would define her character. Despite life's challenges, she was graceful and determine, never allowing adversity to dim her spirit. In the early 1970's Mavis and Raphael Thomas met and fell in love and got married on August 18, 1985. Raphael merged well in her family and loved her children as his own. With a determination to make life easier for themselves and their children, Raphael migrated to the United States in the late 1970's and was later joined by his wife Mavis on March 29, 1987.

Upon arrival in the United States, Mavis settled in Lakeland Florida which she made her permanent home. She worked at the Holiday Inn as a Housekeeper and then at the Lakeland Civic Center for many years until her health started to decline in 2007. In 1990, Mavis became a widow as she loss the love of her life Raphael. Her passion for life caused her to immerse herself in gardening, cooking, and feeding friends and families. Her visits to Jamaica were often anticipated by her grandchildren, as she was known for sharing stories of past times, jokes that stirred laughter, and her famous saying when she shared something that was not enough, "glad get yi dat."

Mavis was strong! She was a fighter. she demonstrated unwavering strength and resilience throughout her recent diagnosis. She was fearless! Not even the reality of death could quell her spirit. During her brief illness, Mavis was ushered home by God on March 20, 2024. She was preceded in death by her husband Raphael Thomas, parents Maisie Brown and George Martin, father figure Noel Martin, brother Byron and sister Mildred Atterbury. Left to cherish her memories are her 7 children, 20 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, 1great great grandchild, 2 bothers, 3 sisters and a host of other relatives and friends.
As we bid farewell to Mavis Martin Thomas, let us take comfort in knowing that her spirit will live on in each of us and her love will continue to guide us through life's journey. Mavis you may have left this world, but you have not left our hearts. Rest in peace, dear grandmother, mother, sister, and friend, knowing that you are loved beyond measure and will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing you. You came in peace, and you left in peace. Walk good, we love you!

Ms. Thomas of Lakeland transitioned Wednesday, March 20, 2024. A Visitation will be held Friday, April 19, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Coney Funeral Home - 647 W. Memorial Boulevard, Lakeland, Florida 33815. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 20, 2024 - 11:00 a.m. at Blessed Hope Baptist Church - 1038 W. Walnut Street, Lakeland, Florida 33815. Interment will held following the Celebration of Life at Oak Hill Burial Park - 4620 US Highway 98 South, Lakeland, Florida 33810.

Interment: Oak Hill Burial Park