Chattanooga Community Remembers Yancey Thomas, Jr.

News Summary

Chattanooga mourns the passing of Yancey Thomas, Jr., a beloved advocate for civil rights and fitness instructor, who passed away at age 69. Yancey’s impactful life included dedication to community service, employee rights, and family. Tributes pour in as the community gathers to honor his legacy during a memorial service.

Chattanooga’s Community Mourns the Loss of Yancey Thomas, Jr. at Age 69

Chattanooga, Tennessee, is coming together to remember the remarkable life of Yancey Thomas, Jr., who sadly passed away on March 3, 2025, at the age of 69. A beloved figure in the community, Yancey was born on November 8, 1955, and dedicated his life to advocating for civil rights and serving those around him.

A Vibrant Youth

Growing up in the Tennessee city, Yancey was the son of Yancey Thomas Sr. and Fannie Mae Mitchell Thomas. He expressed his zest for life through sports, playing track and football during his youth. These passions would shape his character and fuel his later commitment to fitness and community wellness.

A Path of Advocacy

After graduating from Riverside High School in 1973, Yancey earned scholarships in football and physics, paving the way for his studies at both Tennessee State University and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. His journey didn’t stop there; he later attended the Electronic Computer Programming Institute, acquiring valuable skills in computer software that he would carry into his professional life.

Yancey worked for many years at First Tennessee Bank and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), where he made a significant impact before eventually retiring. However, his career was not solely defined by his banking and technical roles; he was also dedicated to civil rights. Having been involved in the Black Panther division in Chattanooga, Yancey fought for various causes, advocating tirelessly for equality and justice.

A Commitment to Fitness and Employee Rights

For an impressive 39 years, Yancey served as a Chattanooga Fitness Instructor, positively impacting countless lives through various programs and institutions. His passion for helping others thrive physically went hand in hand with his advocacy for individual rights. Following training in Washington D.C., he became a licensed Tennessee Employee Rights mediator, where he continued serving the community as an Employee Rights Advocate.

With a desire to further assist those in need, Yancey launched a consulting website aimed at helping individuals understand their employee rights. Not stopping there, he also transitioned into web development, providing services to help others create their online presence. Yancey channeled his creativity into numerous websites that encompassed a variety of subjects. From fitness and education to honoring his school legacy and chronicling his family history, his online projects reflected his diverse interests.

Family and Legacy

Leaving behind a legacy of love and community service, Yancey is survived by his wife, Yvonne Thomas, and children Cacharra (Hermilo) Thomas Rabago, Brandie Thomas, and Jasmine Thomas, along with his stepson Michael Dunnigan. The memories he created with his family include several grandchildren, who will carry his spirit forward. His grandchildren – Ja’Marcus Tyrek Thomas, Ayden Rabago, Parys Spratling, Ashton Rabago, Mecca Spratling, and Jewels Spratling – will always hold cherished memories of their grandfather’s guidance and warmth.

Yancey is also survived by sisters-in-law Cynthia (Lonnie) Dawkins and Lily Dunnigan, along with a loving extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins who will also miss his kindness and influence.

A Celebration of Life

The community will have an opportunity to honor Yancey’s life during a memorial service scheduled for 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, at the John P. Franklin Funeral Home located at 1101 Dodds Ave. Friends, family, and community members are encouraged to attend this gathering, paying tribute to a man who was not only a champion for civil rights but also a guiding light for many.

In a world that often faces challenges, Yancey Thomas, Jr.’s unwavering dedication to advocacy and community service will forever be remembered in the hearts of those he touched. Rest in peace, Yancey.

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Additional Resources

• Chattanoogan: Yancey Thomas, Jr.
• Wikipedia: Civil Rights Movement
• WNWS: Lauren Yancey Named Assistant Director
• Google Search: Yancey Thomas Jr
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Yancey Thomas