Kelly Thomas

JONESBORO - On Dec. 7, the world lost one of its rarest originals when George "The Godfather" Kelly Thomas rode off into the sunset at the age of 74 years young.

A man of many titles and talents. Kelly lived more lives than most folks manage in two lifetimes. At various points, he was a Boy Scout, a pilot, a farmer, a real estate agent, Lord High Constable of Whitehall, a horseman, and a drummer, proving that you really can serve the Lord on Sunday and raise a little hell the rest of the week. Kelly officially retired from farming, but he never retired from telling the truth. Especially the harsh kind. He was funny, wickedly witty, and lovingly unapologetic. If Kelly told you something straight, it was because he cared. If he teased you, it was because he really cared, and if he roasted you in public, well, congratulations, you were family.

Known far and wide as "The Godfather" Kelly was a man who loved three things with absolute devotion: his Harleys, his people, and a Light Beer from the Miller Brewing Company. His life had a steady sound tract of country grit, engine rumble, and laughter that echoed through every room he entered. If you have ever heard someone shout, "Can I get two claps and a Ric Flair?" You knew he was nearby, and inevitably, the room would erupt: CLAP CLAP WOO!

Kelly was preceded in death by his parents: W. D. and Dora Thomas; brother, Neb Thomas; and niece, Muri Essary. He is survived by his loving sons, Eric (Mandy) Thomas and Nathan (Krystal) Thomas; his grandchildren: Isaac, Ezra, Caleb, Jason (Bailey), Brilee, and Payton; his sister, Martha (James) Carlock; his brother, Dave Thomas; his niece, Lee Ellen (Andy) Stepka and Tina (Gary) Crouse; his nephew, Davis and a wide circle of family and friends, riding buddies, and people who were "basically family" whether they knew it or not.

Kelly leaves behind a powerful legacy of love, laughter, faith, farming stories, flying tales, Harley rides, drum beats, and unforgettable one-liners. He was a devoted father, cherished brother, proud grandfather, beloved uncle, and the kind of friend people pray to have.

While we mourn his passing, we can only imagine the entrance he made upstairs. Ride free, Godfather.

Visitation Service will be on Friday, Dec. 12, at Jackson's Funeral Home Chapel from 5 to 8 p.m. Cremation has been chosen as the final disposition by his family.

Memorials may be sent to First United Methodist Church, 204 Main Street, Food Pantry, Harrisburg, Ark., 72432. Arrangements are by Jackson's Funeral Home.