Grace Lucille Thomas

GRACE LUCILLE THOMAS CHANEY, a native of Mobile, Alabama, was born December 2, 1939, and departed this life on January 27, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. Isiah Chaney and Mrs. Lucille Callier Chaney; a beloved son, Ronald Bernard Thomas; three brothers, Alphonse Chaney, Jerome Chaney, and Levorn Chaney; and six sisters, Beatrice Edwards, Myrtis Mattews, Louida McGill, Doris King, Delores Chaney, and Jacqueline Bishop.

Grace accepted Christ at an early age and carried her faith throughout her life. Known around school as “Lon Chaney,” she went on to graduate from Mattie T. Blount High School in Mobile, Alabama, as part of the Class of 1958.

Upon graduation, Grace began a new chapter in Queens, New York. During this time, she built a meaningful career of over 30 years and retired from Long Island Jewish Nursing Home as a healthcare coordinator, serving patients and families. She was a dedicated member of Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church and Tabernacle of Prayer in Queens, New York. She participated in Tabernacle Bible Institute and completed the Bible curriculum, earning a Certificate in Biblical Studies. Her faith led her beyond the classroom, as she also served in prison ministry, sharing encouragement, compassion, and the Word of God with those in need of hope. Beyond her ministry work, Grace found joy in crocheting and sewing, and enjoyed traveling, especially on cruises.

Upon relocating to Nashville, TN, Grace found a new church home at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where she continued to live out her faith through service. She enjoyed cooking and faithfully volunteered with “The Lord’s Kitchen” and “Camp Zion,” and also served as a member of the Pace Matrons, a senior ministry dedicated to food service and community outreach. Grace carried her servant’s heart beyond the church walls, volunteering weekly at the Christian Cooperative Ministry in Madison, TN, where she helped provide food and clothing to those in need—reflecting her lifelong compassion and commitment to helping others.