January 18, 1967 – July 18, 2017

Story from the Quilt: 

Anthony Leroy Thomas was born on January 18, 1967 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the parents of George C. and Mildred G. Thomas. Anthony departed this life on July 18, 2017.

Anthony was baptized at Bethlehem Baptist Church at an early age where he remained faithful until his transition. As a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Anthony served in the church in numerous capacities including the church’s van driver, a lifelong member of the choir, and the leader of morning devotion. Due to his tireless work at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Anthony was affectionately known as the “Assistant Pastor” of the church.

This quilt square is submitted in Anthony’s memory by his loving parents George C. Thomas and Mildred G. Raspberry and his brothers: James E. Goodlett, Jr., Rodney E. Thomas, Ronald R. Thomas, John E. Raspberry and his sisters: Karen E. Thomas, Jaline P. Thomas. This quilt square was made using the fabric of Anthony’s favorite jeans.

 

I’M FREE

If you know where I am standing

If you could see the lights I see

If you could hear the angels singing

The songs eternally

If you knew where I’m resting

You would not cry for me

I’m resting in Jesus

No other place I’d rather be

So if you shed a tear

Please don’t shed it for me

For if you knew where I am resting

You would not cry for me

I’M FREE