Mr. Paul Bernard Thomas

In Loving Memory Of Paul Bernard Thomas, was born Tuesday, June 30, 1959 in Union, South Carolina, to Paul James Stevens and Joyce Sanders. He was raised by Joyce and David “Flint” Sanders. He was his mother’s second child and the first born son of his five siblings. The family came to Detroit, Michigan when he was 12 years old and resided in Highland Park, Michigan. There he attended and graduated from Highland Park School district. Paul was raised in the church and loved to sing. A man of many talents, Paul was great at everything he put his mind to. He was a lover of a lot, including fishing, music, pool, and even learned martial arts, by way of his Uncle Maxie. “Bernard’s” energy could light up a room and he had an infectious personality that everyone loved. His family and friends will remember him as a “man’s man.” He was the type of person who would set goals and made it a point to get the job done every time. If he truly wanted something, he would make a point to get it on his own. He valued hard work, honesty, and the value of a man’s word. To his children, Paul Anthony and James, he was loving, but stern. He made sure to instill his values on them, as well as the importance of their education. Paul Bernard was always about family, he loved and cherished them all. One of his favorite tag lines was, “I’ll kill a brick and choke a stick” when referencing any of his loved ones. And whenever needed, he would let you know exactly who he was, “The Rooster, make ya feel like ya used tah.” For many years, Paul Bernard was a profound driver, starting off his driving career as a professional truck driver with local companies in the Metro Detroit area. He then transitioned to “burning rubber” as a vehicle transporter with First National Garage. Paul later began a new driving journey as a Smart Bus Driver for nearly a decade, until his retirement in 2008. Before retiring, he met his wonderful wife Shelley in 1990. They soon began dating and built a beautiful bond and friendship. Later he asked for her hand in marriage and they wed on November 19, 1997. Paul made sure that no matter what, he would take care of his wife and they would work as a team to make sure the other was happy. They were able to celebrate 31 years of blissful marriage together, before Paul’s untimely passing. Paul Bernard departed this life Friday, February 24, 2023. He is preceded in death by both of his parents, Paul James Stevens and Joyce Sanders; David “Flint” Sanders; and Aunt Colleen Rodgers. He leaves to cherish his memories: his beloved wife Shelley Thomas; his pride and joys, both of his sons, Paul Anthony Thomas (Chensea) and James Thomas; his stepson Konata Carter; his siblings, Susan Thomas; Eric (Karen “Deat”) Stevens; Robin (Michael) Howard; JaRaud (LeAnna) Sanders; Evelyn Kyle; Darnell (Maxine) Kyle; his four loving grandchildren Keimon C. Thomas, Nyla S. Thomas, Skyy L. Thomas, and Paris J. Thomas; and a host of nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Mr. Paul Bernard Thomas

June 30, 1959 - February 24, 2023