Stockbridge Council Member, Longtime Public Servant Alphonso Thomas Dies

STOCKBRIDGE, GA. — The City of Stockbridge is mourning the loss of District 2 Councilman Alphonso Thomas, a lifelong resident and dedicated public servant whose career spanned more than three decades. City officials announced Thomas’ passing Friday.

Thomas devoted more than 35 years to serving the Stockbridge community, both as an elected official and in appointed roles. During his tenure on the City Council, he also served two years as Mayor Pro Tem, a position to which he was appointed by his fellow council members.

“His service to the community spans over 35 years as both a public servant and public official,” city officials said in a statement. “Alphonso also served as president of the Stockbridge Civic Association, a local nonprofit organization that served the community for many years.”

A lifelong Stockbridge resident, Thomas was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and a proud alumnus of Fort Valley State University. He was widely known for his commitment to civic engagement, history, and community pride.

Thomas led Stockbridge’s annual African-American Celebration during Black History Month for six years and received numerous honors throughout his life, including the Henry County NAACP Freedom Fund Community Service Award, a Certificate of Excellence, the Eagle Scout Mentor’s Pin from Troop #65, and the Zeta Mu Nu Chapter Omega Citizen of the Year Award.

He was also recognized for his historical research documenting Stockbridge as the ancestral home of Martin Luther King Sr. (“Daddy King”), the father of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Thomas sponsored the King Family Plaque, which remains on permanent display at Stockbridge City Hall, ensuring that the city’s connection to the King family is preserved and remembered.

City leaders and residents alike remembered Thomas as a steady, thoughtful presence whose legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Stockbridge.

Funeral arrangements and memorial details have not yet been announced.