Laura Elizabeth ThomasKnoxville, TNLaura Elizabeth McGhee Thomas, age 67, went home to be with her Lord on May 10, 2017. She was born on January 15, 1950 in Athens, TN. She attended J.L. Cook School until it closed.Early in her career, Laura was one of few women to obtain an apprenticeship to become a Journeyman Pipefitter for TVA at Watts Bar Dam. She later shifted careers and ultimately retired from Holiday Inn Downtown with over 20 years of dedicated service.Preceded in death by: children, Terri, Bruce and Frances Witt; granddaughter, Shania Batts-Witt; and parents, William and Mary Elizabeth McGhee. Left to cherish her memory: husband, Charles Thomas, Jr.; devoted grandson, Charvon Thomas; children: Sherri Farmer, Richard Witt, Valerie McDaniel, Charles Thomas, III and Cynthia Garett; twelve grandchildren: twelve great-grandchildren: brothers: Luther, James and George McGhee; aunt, Jean Malone; a host of other family and friends.Tuesday, May 16, 2017, the family will receive friends from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with s homegoing celebration to follow at Wilder Missionary Baptist Church at 1531 Wilder Place Knoxville, TN 37915. Reverend Johnny Reid officiating. Interment to immediately follow at New Gray Cemetery where a white dove release will conclude the service. Flowers may be delivered to the church the day of the service. Professional arrangements entrusted to Patton Funeral Home, Brian L. Buckmon, LFD 1-800-824-8283 or www.pattonfuneralhome1962.com