Sam S. Thomas Submitted by Robin Sterling The Blount County Journal, 11 Jan 1918 Death At Royal Sam S. Thomas, who had been engaged in the mercantile business at Royal for sometime, died after a brief illness at his home there Saturday. The deceased was about 74 years of age at the time of his death and was a member of the Methodist church and a devout Christian, belonged to the Masonic Lodge and lived up to its teachings. The remains were laid to rest in Oak Grove cemetery Sunday, with the Masons in charge.