Thomas Adams Winningham, Sr. was born to the late Lila Adams and Fred Winningham in Winston-Salem, North Carolina on December 11, 1929.

He was totally loved and he enjoyed life and all that it offered. His fun-loving personality was irresistible. And his family, friends and many acquaintances affectionately called him "Sonny Boy," "Big Cat," or "Ham."

Thomas attended the public schools of Winston-Salem and was a member of the 1946 graduating class of Atkins High School.

He began his early Christian education at Mount Zion Baptist Church. He joined and was baptized as a child during the pastorate of the late Reverend Dr. R. L. File. He was a life-long member of the church and was a "balcony saint" in regular attendance until his recent passing.

In 1951, Thomas Winningham entered the United States Army and gave honorable service for his country prior to his discharge from military service. He was a loyal employee of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company for forty-two years before he retired from the company.

Thomas was very independent (in spite of his advanced age); he loved to cook, enjoyed sports, movies and evenings out. He was a member of the Atkins High School Alumni Association, Winston Lake YMCA, L.A. Fitness and a former member of the American Legion Hut.

Thomas Adams Winningham, Sr. passed away at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina on Monday, April 25, 2022, after a brief period of illness. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by Mrs. Zoleen Winningham, his wife of more than 60 years; his daughter, Karen; his twin brother and four sisters.

Those family members who survive and who will forever cherish loving memories of him include his son, Thomas, Jr.; his granddaughter, Nikkie (Michael) Terry; three great grandchildren; two great, great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family will receive friends 1pm Tuesday, May 3, 2022 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church with the funeral service following at 1:30pm.

Thomas, Sonny Boy , Big Cat , Ham , Daddy and Patriarch of his family be truly missed!!