Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foundation Chairman Celebrates the Life & Legacy of His Mom

ATLANTA - Feb. 25, 2020 - PRLog -- Sheila E. Thomas, mother of Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foundation Founder, Michael Thomas, is being celebrated for her life and contributions to the Caribbean diaspora. Thomas passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at Schneider Regional Medical Center in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Mrs. Thomas was born and raised on the beautiful Caribbean island of Anguilla. She was a descendant of the Horsford family in Anguilla who migrated from St. Kitts; and the Payne family of Barbados. At age 17, Mrs. Thomas relocated to the U.S. Virgin Islands where she made a comfortable life for herself and her four young sons. She is credited with instilling in them a strong cultural identity, care and compassion for others, the value of justice, stewardship and commitment. Her professional life also reflected her personal values. Thomas served at the Department of Tourism (formerly the Department of Economic Development and Agriculture) for 30 years. She retired from her post in 2007 desiring to spend more time with family and friends.

Mrs. Thomas was one of the driving forces behind her son's decision to create the Caribbean American Movers and Shakers Awards which led to the formation of the Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foundation. Founder and son, Michael Thomas said, "My mother was the catalyst for the creation of the Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foundation, her dedication to education was paramount to myself and my three brother's success." The 501(c)3 organization celebrates some of the ideas and hopes that she championed during her life; including care and compassion for victims of natural disasters, educational mentorship for Caribbean American students and sharing the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean diaspora.

Sheila E. Thomas is survived by her four sons, a granddaughter, four sisters and a host of nieces and nephews. She will be missed.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foundation www.caribbeanculturalarts.org.