Christopher "Dusty" Thomas, 42 of Columbus, GA passed away on Saturday June 27, 2026 at Piedmont Midtown Hospital, with his parents by his side. 

Beloved son of Ann and Hut Verner and the late Scottie Thomas. Dusty shared special bonds with both dads....Alabama football, flats fishing and deer hunting with Scottie, turkey hunting, fly fishing, camping, boating and anything outdoors with Hut. Their weeklong river camping/ducking trips were tales to tell. Dusty loved his family deeply, having special relationships with the grands, Roland and Granny Thomas side and Papa and Jean Verner side. Dusty went on many vacations with Grands John & Marie Sellars. Dusty had a very special bond with his Maternal Grandfather, Charlie Swails. He had a wonderful, full and well-lived life with many cousins, aunts and uncles on the Thomas, Verner, Simpson, Swails, Braggs and Bailey and one very special teacher Ms. Willis in Thomasville, GA.

A proud alumni of Hardaway High School and Columbus Tech, Dusty learned at an early age that he loved working with his hands. Using these skills he started his own home improvement business, D.H.I. 

Dusty had a big heart, always ready to help others and he never met a stranger. He made friends everywhere from the Big Red Boat, Bahamas, Albany, Atlanta....everywhere! He led a difficult life medically, having Lupus, Tourette’s, depression and addiction but was able to turn the negatives into positives by mentoring many of the people he met. He was active in NA, giving jobs to those who could not find work and inspiring many and his infectious optimism.

Dusty left us too soon but his life and spirit live on with the cherished memories left with his family and friends. Dusty touched the hearts of people from all walks of life. Dusty graced this world with his vibrant and compassionate spirit leaving an everlasting imprint of those who knew him.

Other than his father, Joseph Scottie Thomas, he was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents: Roland and Odean Thomas. He is survived by his parents: Ann and Hut Verner of Fortson, GA, sisters: Abby Hilyer (Jared) of Auburn, AL and Lee Robinson (Chris) of Atlanta, GA, maternal grandparents: John and Marie Sellars of Leesburg, GA, maternal grandfather: Charlie Swails of Covington, GA.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to: The Men's Shelter at the Valley Rescue Mission

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date by the Friends and Family. 

Bring your best Dusty stories.