Ben T. Thomas

Ben T. Thomas, 86, of Belden, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.

Born in Pheba, Mississippi, on July 23, 1939, Ben was the son of Ben Walker Thomas and Frances Terry Thomas. He graduated from Perkinston High School in May of 1957, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mississippi State University in 1961, where he was an active member of Sigma Chi Fraternity.

Following graduation, Ben began his career as a high school teacher in Columbus, and later became the first headmaster of Oak Hill Academy in West Point. He went on to serve as an office project manager for Travelers Insurance Company before becoming a consultant for McDonnell Douglas. Ben retired as Assistant General Manager of Central Service Association in Tupelo.

Outside of his professional life, Ben was an avid Mississippi State Bulldog fan who enjoyed reading, antique cars, collecting Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and spending time outdoors enjoying nature.

Ben is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Rita Thomas; his daughter, Shawn Thomas Campbell of Birmingham, Alabama; grandchildren Bradley Thomas (Chelsea), Justin Thomas (Anna Beth), and Blake Thomas, all of Fulton; Kayla Campbell, Sarah Wesleigh Smith, Gracie Lester (Emerick), Hallie Campbell, and Collin Campbell, all of Birmingham, Alabama; and several great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ben Walker and Frances Terry Thomas; his son, Art Thomas; and his sister, Beth Lichey.

Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until service time Monday, June 8, 2026, at Belden Baptist Church.

A Celebration of Life will be at 2 p.m. Monday, June 8, 2026, at Belden Baptist Church with Bro. Shane McGivney and Bro. Jim Holcomb officiating. Pegues Funeral Directors have entrusted with the care of his arrangements.

Honorary pallbearers will be Bradley Thomas, Justin Thomas, Blake Thomas, Collin Campbell, John Tucker Wynne, and Michael Wynne.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gideons International, P.O. Box 140800, Nashville, Tennessee 37214; Belden Baptist Church Missions Program, P.O. Box 92, Belden, Mississippi 38826; or a charity of your choice.

Ben will be remembered for his dedication to family, strong work ethic, his love of learning and the outdoors, and the kindness he shared with all who knew him.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be left at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.