The City of Stockbridge is mourning the loss of District 2 Councilman Alphonso Thomas, a lifelong resident whose decades of service and dedication helped shape the community he loved. News of Thomas’s passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from residents, colleagues, and civic leaders who remember him as a tireless advocate for unity, history, and public service.
Councilman Thomas devoted more than 35 years to serving Stockbridge in various capacities, both as a public servant and elected official. He served two years as Mayor Pro Tem after being appointed by his fellow council members and previously led the Stockbridge Civic Association, a nonprofit organization that supported local initiatives and community development for many years.
A graduate of Fort Valley State University and a faithful member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Thomas was widely respected for grounding his leadership in faith, integrity, and service. One of his most cherished contributions was organizing the Annual African-American Celebration during Black History Month for six consecutive years, an event that highlighted culture, education, and unity within the city.
Thomas’s impact extended beyond events and titles. He played a key role in researching and documenting Stockbridge as the ancestral home of Martin Luther King Sr., known as “Daddy King,” and sponsored the King Family Plaque that now stands in Stockbridge City Hall—an enduring reminder of the city’s historical significance.
Over the years, his commitment earned him numerous honors, including a Certificate of Excellence, the Henry County NAACP Freedom Fund Community Service Award, the Eagle Scout Mentor’s Pin from Troop #65, and the Omega Citizen of the Year Award from the Zeta Mu Nu Chapter.
As Stockbridge reflects on his life and legacy, many describe Alphonso Thomas as a leader who genuinely embodied the city’s core values—service, respect, and community pride. While he will be deeply missed, his contributions and influence will continue to resonate throughout Stockbridge for generations to come.