Silenda Thomas

Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt, Ms. Silenda Thomas, passed away on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at Avista Nursing and Rehabilitation at the age of 66 years. She was born on October 1, 1950 in Prattville, Alabama to Rosa Mae Smith and David McQueen.
Silenda was a resident of Saginaw, Michigan. She attended Ruben Lifelong Learning Center where she obtained her GED. She was an avid reader and she loved gardening. Her spiritual interest was Christian Science. Silenda believed strongly in family and often shared in prayer at family gatherings. She loved being sociable and entertaining and listening to her sister read poetry. Silenda often ministered to others in the community, as she was an instrument of giving and generosity. She was employed nine years by General Motors (Saginaw Grey Iron Foundry) and was a member of UAW Local 668.
Ms. Thomas leaves to cherish loving memories one daughter, Tammie Lynnette Hines, Saginaw, Michigan; one son, Edward E. Thomas; grandchildren, Schelette and Tanesha Hines, Saginaw, Michigan, Brittany Hines, Big Rapids, Michigan, Ovandre Thomas, Texas, Veronica Garcia, Lansing, Michigan; great grandchildren, Trayvon Marques Lee, Vincent and Alexandria Gamble, Liberty Braddock, Elliott Jackson, II, Ovandre Thomas, Jr., JaNiya and Jada Lackey and Jaden Owens; two sisters, Odessa Spencer and Kiwanna Buford; three brothers, James and Johnny McQueen and Wilbert Lyles; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Silenda was preceded in death by her mother, Rosa Mae Smith; father, David L. McQueen and son, LaFayette Thomas, III.