Fred Andrew Thomas, 96, Independence, Missouri, passed away on July 13, 2016. He was born February 29, 1920 to the union of the late Fred Thomas and Irene Cooper in Independence, Missouri. Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Leona I. Thomas;, two sons, James Thomas and Freddie J. Thomas; and four daughters, Cynthia Thomas Fenner, Gloria Phillips, Jacqueline E. Smith, and Delores Smith. Fred married Leona I. Ash on July 1, 1941 and they were blessed with eleven children. As a World War II veteran, Fred served in the United States Army from March 20, 1943 to February 4, 1946, from which he received an honorable discharge. Fred retired in 1982 from the City of Independence Public Works as foreman. Fred was an active member of Palestine Missionary Baptist Church, where he was the first stone masonry that placed a stone and generously donated property to the church. He more recently attended Second Baptist Church. Fred was a member of the American Legion with several recognitions and was also involved in 4-H with the youth group. He leaves to mourn his passing: three sons, Ronald E. Thomas (Ane); Gerald L. Thomas (Margie) and Gary A. Thomas; two daughters: Betty J. Chrisman and, Kathy M. Thomas all of Independence, MO; and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Funeral services will be Wednesday, July 20, 1:00 p.m. at Second Baptist Church of Independence. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at the church. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.