C. Warden Thomas, 89, of Vine Grove, died Monday, June 4, 2018, while surrounded by family.
He spent three years on active duty during the Korean War era. Upon completion of his military service, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky University, attended the University of Kentucky and received a Master’s Degree and Rank One from the University of Louisville. He began his career in education as a teacher of agriculture in Bardstown, but is best known as the principal of Vine Grove Elementary School for 26 years. He is credited for opening the first Kindergarten Program in Vine Grove and for starting a Moral Training Program.
In addition to his love for children, he loved his family, his church, and farming. He was a charter member of Valley View Baptist Church in Vine Grove and was involved in church service there for over 30 years. He was also active in the community, serving in a variety of leadership roles including; Hardin County Beef Cattle Association, Hardin County Livestock Improvement Association, Soil Conservation Committee, Hardin County Farm Bureau, Hardin County Extension Service Board, Cub Scout Master, Gideons International, and was the last Commander of the Vine Grove American Legion.
He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Tara Beth Thomas; and two brothers, Kenneth Thomas and Vinson Thomas.
He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Wanda Thomas; three children, Carolyn Ward, Tommy (Judy) Thomas and David (Lori) Thomas; three sisters, Wava Goodman, Elizabeth Ann Whelan and Betty Jean Hager; two brothers, Dalph (Mona) Thomas and Dean (Donna) Thomas; eight grandchildren, Jimmy (Trina) Ward, Jeremy Ward, Emerald (Travis) Kibbe, Benjamin (Kristin) Thomas, Brandon (Amber) Thomas, Kurt (Sarah) Thomas, Kyle (Alexis) Thomas and Casey Thomas; 10 great-grandchildren, Amber, Atom, Breanne, Peyton and Ashlynn Ward, Layla and Seven Brandenburg , Gabrielle Childers, Gabriel and Elizabeth Ann Thomas.
The funeral is 11 a.m. Friday, June 8, 2018, at Valley View Baptist Church, 501 Valley View Dr., Vine Grove, with the Rev. Mark Powell and the Rev. Ron Burgess officiating. Burial is in Vine Grove Cemetery with military honors.
Visitation is 3-8 p.m. Thursday, June 7, 2018, and after 10 a.m. Friday, June 8, 2018, at Nelson-Edelen-Bennett Funeral Home in Radcliff.
The Nelson-Edelen-Bennett Funeral Home in Radcliff is in charge of arrangements.
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