Naomi Octavia (Wayman) Thomas

Naomi Octavia Thomas, peacefully stepped into eternity, on Friday 7, 2025.  Naomi was born on May 18, 1942, to the late Henry Wayman and Mildred Wayman.  Naomi was raised in Denton (Deep Branch) MD. 

Naomi graduated from Lockerman High School in Denton MD.  Following high school, she later attended Bowie State College; however, graduated with her bachelor’s degree from Sojourner Douglass College.  Naomi worked for many years at Kraft Foods as a secretary, and later went on to teach elementary education at both Federalsburg Elementary School and Ridgely Elementary School.  In addition, Naomi also taught in the summer migrant program. And for many years, she also taught in the GED program, helping those who were trying to obtain their high school diplomas. Naomi served over 25 years as an Educator in Caroline County Public Schools.

Naomi was a member of Bell’s Chapel A.M.E Church, where she served faithfully on various committees and boards: Daisy A. Lake Missionary Society, Bell’s Chapel Senior Choir, President of the Stewardess Board, and as well as a past Steward.  Among these things, she also had a great passion as a Sunday school teacher.

Naomi is a past member of Myra Grand Chapter, Order of Eastern Star (P.H.A.) Fellowship Chapter 58. OES: Denton MD. She was also a member of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, a women’s professional sorority.  Because of failing health, regretfully, she was unable to fulfill and participate in church and community activities; however, but the love of all these things stayed in her heart.

Naomi enjoyed reading, shopping and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.    She enjoyed spending quality time with her two children and their spouses.  Whether they were just sitting around talking, or out for dinner, she loved those times.  They enjoyed cookouts and shopping trips. Naomi especially enjoyed when her son-in-law, Eddie, prepared one of her favorite dishes, navy bean soup. Naomi also enjoyed spending time with her friends known as “The Golden Girls”: Althea Tilghman ,Doretha Coursey and Joyce Flamer.  She and her brother, Leon, and sister-in-law, Ann, were neighbors for well over 40 years. This brought her great joy, peace, and comfort.

Naomi was preceded in death by her mother, Mildred Wayman, her father, Henry Wayman and her siblings: Hazel Dunning, Henry Wayman, and Richard Wayman, and her beloved grandson, Edward Garfield Minus III, fondly known as Tre’.  

Naomi leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter, Lisa Rene Minus (Eddie); Son, James Thomas Jr (Cynthia); brother, Leon Wayman (Ann); grandchildren: Summer Thomas and James Thomas III, known as (JT )and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Naomi Octavia (Wayman) Thomas, please visit our floral store.