Michael "Donnell" Thomas 63, of Austin, TX (formerly of Beaverdam, VA) was born January 3, 1962, to the late Charles Eugene and Joyce Irene Thomas. He transitioned from labor to reward on Thursday, January 16, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister: Valerie Renee Grooms and his brother: Darrell Eugene Thomas.

Donnell joined Union Baptist Church, Beaverdam at an early age. He attended Hanover County Public Schools, graduating from Patrick Henry High School in 1980. He joined the US Army in 1982 and served until 1985. While serving his country, he received several medals and commendations including Good Conduct, Achievement, Commendable and Exemplary Service.

While stationed at Ft. Hood in Austin, TX, he met and married Wilma Elaine Alexander. To this union a son, Charles Lewis Thomas, Jr was born. They later adopted Wilma's nephew, Zachary Donnell Alexander and they became bonus parents to Montrell Johns.

Growing up Donnell loved fishing, hunting and "working in the woods" with his beloved father and uncle, Ben Lewis Thomas. His said his son Charles was a Jr because he was named after them both. As an adult, Donnell loved cooking and gardening as well. He would share his vegetables with everyone and would barbeque and fry chicken for family and his entire neighborhood. Like his parents and grandparents before him, he never met a stranger and went out of his way to help anyone that he could.

Donnell worked for many years as a Fence Installer/Specialist and served as a consultant until his passing.

He leaves to cherish his memory a devoted family, wife Wilma Thomas; sons: Charles Thomas, Zachary Alexander and Montrell Johns all of Austin, TX; sisters: Gwen Thomas James and Erica Thomas; brothers: Mark Jones (Tina) and Shawn Thomas (Krista); aunts: Alice Powell and Ida Bell Johnson; uncle: William "Pete" Jones (Diane); several nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends.