Ahmadia Thomas

Rev. Mother Ahmadia Thomas transitioned from this life on June 9th, 2024 at the age of 96. Born on February 17, 1928, in Danville, Virginia, Ahmadia's remarkable life took her from the heart of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to her dedicated service in Richmond, California.

Raised in Pittsburgh after her mother moved the family when Ahmadia was an infant, she experienced a childhood filled with resilience and love despite the Great Depression and the 1936 flood aka The Great St. Patrick’s Day flood. Educated locally, she was profoundly influenced by her mother's dedication as a domestic worker for a local doctor (Dr. Sankey).  Accompanying her mother to work, Ahmadia developed a sense of community service that would define her life's work.

Ahmadia married young and balanced raising her family with various roles, including domestic work and hospital positions. Her commitment to lifelong learning led her to community college in California, and as a VISTA volunteer, she trained in Washington, D.C., to advocate for welfare rights. This early experience laid the groundwork for her enduring dedication to community service and social justice.

 Her tireless efforts included co-founding the West County Toxic Coalition in California, where she addressed environmental and health issues, advocating for safer communities. As a licensed minister and police chaplain, Rev. Mother Thomas provided spiritual support, crisis intervention, and guidance, embodying compassion and leadership.

A vibrant and talented individual, she enjoyed drawing, poetry, and artistic endeavors. Her early involvement with the Girl Reserves and YMCA showcased her passion for community engagement, and her work with the Gray Panthers underscored her advocacy for older adults, championing their rights and welfare. In 1974, Ahmadia married James R. Thomas and continued her community involvement after moving to California. Her dedication was recognized through numerous awards, including honors from the city of Richmond and graduation from the Richmond Police Department’s Citizens Academy.

Rev. Mother Thomas is survived by her cherished family: Molika Ghafoor, Ibrahim “Ibby” Ghafoor, and Talib Ghafoor and her five children: Tanis Smith, Maria Brock, Edward Nolden, Regina Nolden, and Louis Nolden. She is also remembered by many great-grandchildren and a large extended family. She was predeceased by her children Tommy Nolden, Elwood Nolden, and Marvina Dozier.

Her legacy is one of unwavering advocacy, deep compassion, and a profound commitment to her community. Rev. Mother Thomas's life exemplified resilience, love, and the transformative impact of selfless service. Her unwavering commitment to helping others, coupled with her strength, dignity, wisdom, and compassion, has left an indelible mark on the world. She will be profoundly missed and cherished in the memories of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

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