Tommy Dural Thomas was born March 18, 1946, in Gladewater, TX to the parentage of Fred & Annie Thomas. His sisters fondly called him "Brother Bear". He was a member of the Weldon Marching Band where he played the trombone under the direction of Mr. Van Zandt.

Tommy graduated in 1964. He was a member of the Progressive COGIC where he served as Sunday School secretary until he left to attend college in California. In 1966 Tommy was drafted into the US Army & served in Vietnam. With much prayer from his mother & members of the church, Tommy returned safely to the states. He was later honorably discharged & continued his education.  Tommy married Andrea Willis and to this union, two daughters were born. He joined Star Bethel Church where he was active in Usher Board & Men's choir.  Tommy later married Mamie Windham and this union lasted 30 years.

Tommy retired from the City of Pinole, CA where he analyzed and tested public water; he was also an agent with Primerica Insurance and was a professional photographer. Tommy loved fishing & long walks. In July 2021 he returned to Texas. Tommy enjoyed his stay at Christian Care Center where he developed a new passion for playing bingo.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, eldest sister Marjorie Thompson, eldest daughter Monique Thomas, & his wife, Mamie Thomas.

He leaves to mourn his passing: his daughter Kenya Thomas, stepdaughter Regina Cowan, stepson John Overall, sisters: Emily Harvey, Brenda (John) Shallowhorn, Iris (Johnie) Clark, Gail Thompson & Brenda (Larry) Glover, 5 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren & a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, & friends.  Tommy will truly be missed. Well done faithful servant!