Paul Herschel "Hershey" Thomas of 106 East Drive, Winston-Salem, NC departed this life Wednesday, July 30, 2008 at the Wake Forest University/Baptist Medical Center. Mr. Thomas was born November 8, 1953 to Edith Thomas Cox.

Paul attended Canaan Missionary Baptist Church of Winston-Salem, NC where he thoroughly enjoyed the praise and worship services.

Mr. Thomas was a heavy equipment operator by trade and worked for his father, Hector Cox, Jr. until he became disabled.

Hershey as his friends called him, enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved to be around people, cooking, watching or talking about racing, fishing, and hunting.

Mr. Thomas was preceded in death by his brother, Gilbert Cornelius Thomas of Winston-Salem, NC.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories two sons, Cedric (Stephanie) Thomas and Jeremy (LaToya) Hall; four grandchildren, Courtney and Gavin Thomas and Jayla and Jacob Hall; his parents, Deacon Hector and Edith Cox; four brothers, Hector Cox, III, Joseph B. Cox, Larry Edwards, and Johnny Coleman; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 1pm Saturday, August 2, 2008 from the St. Stephens Missionary Baptist Church with Reverend James Rowdy officiating and Reverend Ronald Speas eulogist. Interment will follow in Benbow Chapel AME Zion Church, East Bend, NC. The family visitation will be held from Noon until 1pm on Saturday at the Church.