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Billy Lewis Thomas Jr.
Billy Lewis Thomas Jr.
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Billy Thomas Jr. Obituary
Billy served honorably in the Air Force, a testament to his dedication and love for his country. After his military service, he continued to serve his community through his volunteering for the homeless shelter and food pantry in West Frankfort, Illinois.
He was deeply committed to his faith and expressed his love for God and Christ through extensive volunteer work, particularly with the Trinity Methodist Church's Night to Noonday program, which serves the homeless population in his hometown.
Billy is survived by his loving family: mother, Sandra Arn; stepfather, Mark Arn; sons, Trevor Herzog, Billy Thomas the 3rd, and Daniel Thomas; sister, Susan Salamacha; brother-in-law, Steven Salamacha Sr.; nephews, Brandon Stanley and Steven Salamacha Jr.; and nieces, Michaela Stanley, Misty Stanley, and Stephanie Salamacha, along with many great nephews and a great niece. He was preceded in death by his father, Billy Lewis Thomas Sr.; his great niece, Lux Carlin Brymer; and his grandparents.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Trinity Methodist Church/Night to Noonday program, continuing Billy's legacy of caring for the less fortunate in West Frankfort, Illinois.
Visitation
Saturday, January 18, 2025
12:00PM - 2:00PM
Third Baptist Church
1101 West 6th
West Frankfort, IL
Memorial Service
Date to be determined
Fairview Cemetery
757 South Santa Fe Avenue
Fountain, Colorado
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Sandra Arn
January 9, 2025
Billy held a special place in my heart, and I cherish the countless memories we shared.
He had a unique ability to light up the room with his humor, always joking around and making those around him laugh. His kindness and loving nature shone through in everything he did, as he was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
Though sensitive at heart, he was a joy to be around. I never had to resort to discipline with him; just raising my voice would send him off to hide in the closet, tears in his eyes.
One memorable incident stands out to me. As I was heading out the door to attend Bible study, Billy surprised me by slapping a pair of his dad's handcuffs on my wrist. None of us could find the key, which led to quite the predicament. I decided to make a quick stop at the Fountain Police Department to see if they could help. Upon explaining the situation, the officer on duty informed me that he couldn't remove them until confirming I wasn't wanted for anything!
Luckily, another officer overheard our exchange and, with a smile, offered to take them off, saying he knew my husband, a police officer with the Colorado Springs Police Department. We all shared a good laugh about it afterward.
Billy, I miss you deeply, but it comforts me to know you are rejoicing with Jesus, your dad, and all our loved ones who have gone before us. It brings me peace to know that you are free from pain, and I will always love you with all my heart.
Sandra Arn
January 9, 2025
Billy held a special place in my heart, and I cherish the countless memories we shared.
He had a unique ability to light up the room with his humor, always joking around and making those around him laugh. His kindness and loving nature shone through in everything he did, as he was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
Though sensitive at heart, he was a joy to be around. I never had to resort to discipline with him; just raising my voice would send him off to hide in the closet, tears in his eyes.
One memorable incident stands out to me. As I was heading out the door to attend Bible study, Billy surprised me by slapping a pair of his dad's handcuffs on my wrist. None of us could find the key, which led to quite the predicament. I decided to make a quick stop at the Fountain Police Department to see if they could help. Upon explaining the situation, the officer on duty informed me that he couldn't remove them until confirming I wasn't wanted for anything!
Luckily, another officer overheard our exchange and, with a smile, offered to take them off, saying he knew my husband, a police officer with the Colorado Springs Police Department. We all shared a good laugh about it afterward.
Billy, I miss you deeply, but it comforts me to know you are rejoicing with Jesus, your dad, and all our loved ones who have gone before us. It brings me peace to know that you are free from pain, and I will always love you with all my heart.
Aunt Cindy
January 9, 2025
Billy, what I remember was when you were little with your blond hair, dripples below your eyes on your check bones, your smile, and how Uncle Daryl always called you "Billy blue shoes" I can see you so clear. We didn't get to see each other much as adults but would have lunch with Grandma when you and your family came to town, I so enjoyed seeing you as a wonderful Father. My heart is heavy, and I will miss you! I know you are better now, and with all our loved ones. I love you!
Steven Salamacha
January 7, 2025
I have a lot of good memories of Billy, but one of my favorite memories was when Susan and I went to his house one night and he was cooking steaks on the grill. He took the steaks out side to the grill on a plate. He came back in the house to get the salt and pepper, and we all heard the plate hit the concrete. We all ran outside and the neighbors dog (who was blind) had stolen one of the steaks and was half way across the yard, on his way home!! He was mad, but we all had a great laugh! Billy, I will miss you, but you are in a better place, make room for all of us, one day we will be there also! You had a wonderful heart and are loved very much! I miss you Billy! Love you brother! Steven (brother-in-law)
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Jacob Orange
January 7, 2025
Always enjoyed Billy's company, you were bound to have a good laugh when around him.
I have fond memories of the times I got to tag along with Billy and Charlie when they were hanging out.
I learned from him how to view the premium cable channels for free back in the old days of cable.
I have one recollection with mental image of Billy working on a car in the garage at Ithaca, with Kilo 94.3 playing on the radio. Thats how I imagine him now.
Susan Salamacha
January 7, 2025
I miss you so badly my baby brother. My heart is so broken, and I´m so lost without you. I do know that you´re with Jesus now and all of the loved ones who have passed on. I´m just happy that you aren´t suffering anymore. I love you forever, and I will see you again one day. Love Always, your sis Susan
Cheri Orange
January 7, 2025
One time when we were returning to the States for a furlough from East Africa, we were to stay at Billy's parent's house. Billy knew that we couldn't buy the necessities like Twinkies in a third world country. He also knew that I really liked them. When we arrived at his house, hanging in the doorway of our bedroom were Twinkies. Another time we were staying at his house the water line broke & was leaking. At that time Billy had a very bad cold. But to save his parents money, (his parents were out of town) he dug up the water line by himself which was deeply buried the full length of the back yard. It was very cold outside too. Billy you are certainly missed & loved. I am so very glad that you are no longer in pain. Aunt Cheri
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213 East Oak Street, West Frankfort, IL 62896
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