Meet Mr. Wiley

Wiley Thomas is no stranger to Effingham County.

Growing up on a farm in North Effingham County, Wiley was taught by his father Clifton and his mother Sarah that hard work, steady faith, and respect for people is what brings success in life. Wiley grew up with three brothers and two sisters and was able to learn very early the value of family.

EDUCATION

From 1953-1956 Wiley attended Effingham Academy in Springfield, GA where he was very active in various sports, the Future Farmers of America, and a member of the BETA Club. Upon his graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy where he served his country for three years as a naviation mechanic at the Jacksonville Naval Air Station. In July of 1959 he was awarded an Honorable Discharge.

FAMILY

After returning to Effingham County, he married the love of his life, Rosalyn Dutton, on April 21, 1961. Rosalyn also is a life long resident of Effingham County and a graduate of Effingham County High School, class of 1960. Wiley and Rosalyn have two daughters (Detra and Donna), and one son (Darren). Donna is married to Van Horton of Springfield. Darren is married to Mikki Purcell of Rincon. Wiley and Rosalyn are the proud grandparents of 4: Vania Horton, and Chase, Caden, and Claire Thomas. Wiley and Rosalyn, and their family, are very active members of the First Baptist Church of Springfield, GA where Wiley teaches Sunday School and serves in various other roles.

CAREER

Upon his return home from the Navy in 1959, Wiley went to work for Union Camp Paper Company in Port Wentworth, GA where he was employed for nine years. He then worked in the furniture and appliance industry for eighteen years before he ventured out to build a business of his own. In April of 1987 Wiley and Rosalyn opened the doors to a 20,000 square foot furniture and appliance facility called Wiley's Home Center. Shortly after, in December of 1987, his daughter Detra joined the business and now serves as the CEO of the corporation. Just one year after opening the doors, Wiley's Home Center was outgrowing its facility. In 1988, the successful business added 15,000 additional square feet of floor space. Two years in a row (2008 and 2009), Wiley's Home Center was voted "Best Furniture Store in the County". Since 1987 Wiley's Home Center has been serving the people of Effingham County and surrounding communities with integrity, honesty, and customer satisfaction; qualities that Wiley has valued all his life.