Wilburd Earl "Cricket" Thomas

Jul 16, 1944 - Feb 16, 2016

SOUTH BEND - Wilburd Earl Thomas, affectionately known as "Cricket," was born July 16, 1944, in Blytheville, Arkansas, to the loving parents of the late Leroy and Beatrice Thomas. His education began in Blytheville at Harrison Elementary and as a result of the relocation of his family to South Bend, Indiana, he furthered his education at Benjamin Harrison, Washington High School and continued at Saint's Industrial Junior College in Lexington, Mississippi. Wilburd developed a love for cosmetology and pursued that passion in Rochester, New York, where he received his New York State Certified Barber's License.

His interest included the science of boxing and participation in other sport activities. He also was an avid reader which allowed him to write articles for the South Bend Tribune, comprised poetry, and also was am advocate for social and community change and justice. This gentle, articulate, and giant of a man was a lover of mankind, the Word of God and was a licensed COGIC minister under the auspices of the late Superintendent H.M. Newkirk and the late Jurisdictional Prelate Bishop Leroy Anderson in Western New York. He often enjoyed good healthy biblical debating. His mantra was "giving one a hand up and a way out."

Wilburd was the proud father of one son, Dorian, and four grandchildren, who reside in Phoenix, AZ. In 2015 he relocated back to Rochester, NY, with his beloved family and united with the Bethesda Worship Center COGIC pastored by Jurisdictional Prelate of NYC the honorable Bishop R.J. Hoston, where he remained faithful and diligent until his transition.

On Tuesday, February 16, Wilburd received a call, sorta an offer, if you will, that he could not refuse. It was an invitation that he accepted where the wicked will cease from troubling and the weary shall be at rest.

He leaves to celebrate his legacy of life three (3) brothers, Tommy Lee Hester, Leroy (Petra) James (Lenora), and one sister, Jennie (Bishop R.J. Hoston), his wonderful Aunt, Johnnie, the wife of the late Pastor Henry L. Giden. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Source: FindAGrave.com

05/15/2025 EJS

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/231768910/wilburd-earl-thomas