Of Buffalo entered into rest on September 2, 2026.

Thomas James Thedford Sr. was born on November 6, 1935, in Tishabee, Alabama to Thomas and Susie Thedford. In 1943, the Thedford Family moved to Johns, Alabama. Thomas attended Adger Jr. High School from grades 1 to 9. After graduating from 9th grade, he attended Westfield High School where he graduated in 1953. While at Westfield, he played football and almost earned a letter for his performance. Needless to say, he purchased a letter st “W” and placed it on the back of his leather jacket. In addition, he learned an upholstery trade in the shop at Westfield. Thomas also was a member of the Savings Club and Varsity Club.

Soon after graduating from Westfield, he spent his summer in Birmingham, Alabama and worked as a courier for a pharmacy store.While in Birmingham, he also met his friend Henry’s Sister, the love of his life, Fannie Henderson. On July 7, 1956, they were married in Birmingham, Alabama. Thomas and Fannie relocated to Buffalo, New York. From this union, they were blessed with 4 children; Cheryl, Daphne, Valerie and Thomas Jr.

Thomas was a devoted husband of 69 years, loving father and exceptional provider. He enjoyed having family over during special occasions and always enjoyed entertaining during holidays. After relocating to Buffalo, New York, Thomas and Fannie became faithful members of Macedonia Baptist Church. Thomas later served as an Usher and participated in the Male Chorus.

Thomas worked as a Crane Operator at Bethlehem Steel from 1956 to 1998. While working at Bethlehem Steel, Thomas continued to further his education by attending McKinley High School and completing his Machine Shop Certification. He also attended Burgard Vocational where he received many Auto Mechanic Shop Certifications. Thomas continued to expand on his upholstery skills. He upholstered chairs and furniture, even designed his own furniture, which his talents can still be viewed around his home today.

Thomas’ wardrobe was one of a kind, from his smooth suits to his stylish hats. You could always count on him making an impressionable fashion statement. Thomas enjoyed spending time with family during the holidays and loved listening to jazz music. Thomas departed this life on September 2, 2026.

Thomas will be lovingly remembered by his Sons, Thomas J. Thedford, Jr. (Arlene), and Alfred Roberts (Christine) of Sausalito, California, Daughters, Cheryl E. Johnson (David) of Anderson, South Carolina, Daphne L. Harley of Canton, Georgia and Valerie Thedford, Grand Children; Deon James Thedford, Robert Green Sr. (Preonna), Marcea Mgondah (Christopher) of Canton, Georgia and Veronica Green, and Great Grandchildren; Deon T. J. Thedford, Chana Green, Lyric Boney-Thedford, Robert Green Jr., and Vaniya Mae Carter. Surviving siblings include Roosevelt Thedford (Truette) of Atlanta, Georgia, and Eliza Walton of Cincinnati, Ohio, Sister-In-Laws Alberta Thedford of Bessemer, Alabama, and Nasarie Riley of Missouri City, Texas, and Brother In-Law Michael Henderson (Danielle) of Mar Vista, California. Thomas was preceded in death by his wife, Fannie Mae Thedford, Parents, Thomas and Susie Thedford, Brothers; Theotis Thedford, Johnny Thedford, and Edgar Townsend, Sister; Minnie Johnson. He also leaves to cherish a host of nieces, nephews, Godchildren and friends.

Relatives and friends may visit Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church (237 E. North St, Buffalo, NY 14204) on Saturday, September 12 from 11-12 where a Homegoing Service will follow at 12PM. Entombment Forest Lawn Cemetery.