John Orbin "Big Daddy" Thomas

Orbin John "Big Daddy" Thomas, 74, of Pinson was ushered into the presence of his Heavenly Father on July 26, 2021. Big Daddy was born in Jefferson County, Alabama on July 2, 1947, to Faye (Todd) and Orbin Thomas. He was an avid hunter and fisherman as well as a dedicated Scoutmaster. Big Daddy was also a proud 50-year member of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Union. As an Army veteran, he served his country during the Vietnam War. Big Daddy was a faithful member of Providence UMC in Morris, Alabama. He fiercely loved his family and relished his role as a father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of almost 51 years, Paula; daughter Lori Wilson, her husband Chris and their daughters, Hannah, Zoe, Rebekah, Hadassah, and Charis; son, Dr. John William Thomas, his wife Kelsey and their children James, William, Rhett, and Lydia; sister Rhonda Drake, brother Michael Thomas, as well as a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Orbin and Faye Thomas.

Visitation will be held Thursday, July 29, 2021, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Ridout's Gardendale Chapel, 2029 Decatur Highway, Gardendale, AL 35071. A committal service will occur Friday, July 30, 2021, 12:30 PM at Alabama National Cemetery, 3133 Hwy 119, Montevallo, AL 35115. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsgardendalechapel.com for the Thomas family.