Verdell M. Thomas, 81, of Ellijay passed away Friday May 10, 2013 at Emory Hospital following a period of declining health. Born May 20, 1931 in Lumpkin County to the late Frank and Docia Mincey, she had lived in Gilmer County since 2000 having moved from Lilburn. A devoted wife and mother, she loved gardening and sewing. Verdell was a member of Nimblewill Baptist Church and was also preceded in death by a sister, Bonnie Wishon; and brothers, Johnnie Mincey and Leon Mincey. Surviving are her husband of 54 years, Wayne E. Thomas, Ellijay; sons and daughters in law, Jeff and Pam Thomas, Lilburn, Keith and Cerena Thomas, Dahlonega; sisters, Nina Moss, Dahlonega, Opal Beaver, Lilburn; and six grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Tuesday May 14, 2013 at 11 o’clock at the First Baptist Church of Dawsonville. Dr. Jim Gaines will officiate. Interment will follow in the Old Union Baptist Church Cemetery in Young Harris at 3 o’clock. The family will receive friends Monday from 5 until 8 at the funeral home. Condolences may be expressed at www.beardenfuneralhome.com. Bearden Funeral Home, Dawsonville, GA.