Joel Rayford Thames, 57, was called home from this life on Tuesday, March 15, 2016, at his residence in Monticello, MS. Joel was born December 14, 1958 in Brookhaven, MS.
There will be a time of visitation from 5:00pm to 9:00pm, Wednesday, March 16, 2016, at New Hope Baptist Church with the Service Thursday 17, at 2:00pm. The graveside service will be held in the church Cemetery. Wilson Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Dr. Joey Faulk and Brother David Williams will be conducting the services.
Joel retired this past December 31, 2015, as the Sheriff of Lawrence County after 4 consecutive terms, giving him a total of 31 years with law enforcement. He was the President of The Mississippi Sheriff's Association. Mr. Thames was a life time member of New Hope Baptist Church and served as a Deacon for many years.
Surviving Joel is his wife, Tammy Reid Thames; sons, Landon and Logan Thames; father, Paul Thames and sister, Paula Thames Smith.
Proceeding him in death is mother, Vonece Nelson Thames.
Memorials can be made to the New Hope Baptist Church Building Fund, 618 Carmel New Hope Road, Monticello, MS 39654

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