William "Bill" Thomas

William Maurice Thomas was born August 16, 1924, to Thee and Myrtle Thomas in Uniontown, Kentucky. He grew up on the family farm with 5 brothers and 6 sisters. In 1947 he married Eleanor Hain and they had 3 childrenLarry, Judy (Marino-Soulier) and Bobby.His work life included making "Tinker Toys" in Chicago and working in the Kentucky coal mines before moving to Beaumont, Texas, to begin his career in the air conditioning business. Bill worked for Thermal Supply and was transferred to Lake Charles in 1961. After 20 plus years with Thermal, he left to open Thomas Supply with his two sons. For 35 years he was known as "The Big Cheese." A month before his death he was still going to workriding around in his power chair, greeting his customers and making sure they were getting good service. Bill was also known by many as Coach Thomas for he coached baseball in Lake Charles Little League and American Legion for over 20 years. He is survived by his three children and their spouses: Larry (Vicky Reed Thomas); Judy (Danny Soulier); and Bobby (Catherine Davis Thomas)--5 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren with 2 more expected, 5 sisters, 2 brothers, and many more family members and people who love him. He will be remembered with great love and affection for many reasons, but especially, his unconditional love and loyalty, his "mischievous" unforgettable sense of humor, and that voice at the other end of the telephone, "Thomas Supply, Bill Thomas!!!" He was a proud American Veteran. Pallbearers include Matt Thomas, Lance Thomas, Brett Marino, Dwayne Roussel , and Ryan Kennedy. Honorary Pallbearers are Bud Ervin, Rawlen Scully, and Kevin Garcia. I lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Wounded Warriors. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:00 PM Wednesday, April 2, 2014 at Christ the King Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 9:00 PM Tuesday, April 1, 2014 with a Celebration of life service at 6:30 PM at Johnson Funeral Home. Visitation will resume Wednesday at 8:00 AM until 12:30 PM at Johnson Funeral Home. Burial will be at Prien Memorial Park. Monsignor Harry Greig will officiate services.