William Arterberry Thomas, age 79, of Blue Ridge, GA passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 in the Fannin Regional Hospital in Blue Ridge, GA. Mr. Thomas was born on December 31, 1937 in Fannin County, GA to the late Frank Thomas and Jennie Irene Brown Thomas. He was retired from ATC in Kennesaw where he worked as a Certified Welding Inspector. He was of the Christian faith and was a United States Air Force veteran. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, William "Russ" and Rachel Thomas of Augusta, GA; daughters and son-in-law, Stephanie and Bob Angelo of South Point, OH and Bilinda Thomas of Atlanta, GA; brothers, James Howard Galloway of Blue Ridge, and Bobby R. Thomas of Blue Ridge; three grandchildren, Addie Thomas, Amelia Thomas, and Sam Angelo.Funeral services were conducted Saturday, March 18, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. from the Akins Chapel with Rev. Renny Whittenbarger officiating. Music was by Cami Marcus. Pallbearers were Jamey Nicholson, Keith Thomas, Kevin Thomas, Jeff Nicholson, Jeffrey Holloway, and Sam Angelo. Interment followed in Lebanon Church Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.akinsfuneralhome.com. Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge was in charge of arrangements. . SERVICES Funeral Service Saturday, March 18, 2017 2:00 PM Akins of Blue Ridge Chapel 7871 Blue Ridge Drive Blue Ridge, GA 30513