Willie D Thomas Sr.

Willie D. Thomas, Sr. was born September 30, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois. He attended Tennyson elementary school before graduating 8th grade from Biedler Elementary school. He attended John Marshall High school from 1961 to 1964 at which time he left high school to Join the United States Air Force where he attained his GED. He served in the Air Force for four years, part of that time served was in Bangkok Thailand. Post discharge, he secured employment at the Chicago Transit Authority where he remained until his retirement in 1998. 

Willie joined in holy matrimony with Ruth Ann Dixon, August 27, 1976. To that union were born their three children Luciana Thomas (Luci), Linda Thomas and Willie D. Thomas Jr. (TJ).

Willie professed Christ at an early age and later in life rededicated his life to Christ and entered the Seminary. He attended Greater Progressive Baptist Church and was ordained under the leadership of Pastor H.Y. Linzy and Eric Brown, July 10, 
1989. He later joined his mother and numerous family members in fellowship at Central Memorial Baptist Church where he became a member of the pastoral staff until his illness prevented him from regularly attending service.

Willie was a large presence. Like his grandfather, a stranger was soon to be considered a friend. He helped those whom he could and left a lasting impression on all he came to know.

At the end of day and the dawn of the next, February 13th, Willie quietly departed this life to his eternal rest. Laying down his labor of love and entering the loving arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. During his last days here on earth he often spoke of desiring to see his beloved mother Willie Ann Thomas and brother Arthur Wayne Thomas.

A chapter completed, a page turned, a life well lived. His body rests in peace. His spirit and soul return to our heavenly father where he will eternally rejoice in life, until we meet again.

Willie D. leaves to cherish his memory: Children; Luciana Thomas, Linda Thomas, Willie Thomas Jr, (Tasha), Grandchildren; Adaryll Kelly, Gabriel Thomas, Elias Kelly, Curtis Westerfield, Caitlyn Thomas and Courtney Thomas, Stashay S. Lane, Suni B. Lane, Demetrius B. Lane, Great grandchildren; Lailanie, Kyle, Kingston, Gabriella, Princeton, Demetrius, London, Messiah, Nariah, Mi'Jurnee. Sisters; Mary and Regina. A host of family and friends.