Farris Thomas, III

Farris Carter “Tom” Thomas, III, age 75 of Ocean Springs, passed away on Tuesday, October 5, 2021.

He was a native of Atlanta, Georgia and was drafted into the U.S. Army during Vietnam.  After serving for 26 years, he retired as a Lt. Colonel in 1994 as a Special Forces Green Beret. Tom loved his country with all his heart and served willingly and proudly.  He earned a Bachelor of Science and was a Certified Computer Forensic Specialist with IACIS.  His interest in computers and law enforcement provided a new career after he retired from the military.  He was instrumental in solving many crimes involving children that took perpetrators off the street.

Tom served as a First Responder with the Salvation Army and has been a soldier for Christ for years.  His love for the Lord, his family, and others was always first and foremost in his life.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Sarah Thomas; and his son, Farris Thomas, IV.

Tom is survived by his wife of 25 years, Deborah Thomas; his children, Buddy Hand (Melissa) and David Hand (Kimberly); his brother, David Thomas (Kim); his grandson, David W. Hand, II; and many others who loved him and were a part of his life.

Some of his pleasures in life were bird watching, gardening, and keeping up with technology.  He loved giving time to young people and invested his time unselfishly mentoring many teens and children.

Along with being a volunteer for the Salvation Army, Tom was also a member of the Gulf Coast Family Church of the Nazarene, a member of the International Association of Computer Specialists (IACIS), and a member of The Mississippi State Private Investigators Association,

Tom’s love for his Lord, his family and his country made him a very special man.  He had a big heart and touched many lives.  Tom will be terribly missed by all that knew him.

“Rest in Peace Good and Faithful Servant!!!”

Donations can be made to the Salvation Army.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd, West Jackson County, is serving the family.