Gary Dean Thomas

Remembering Gary Thomas, Gone Too Soon

It is with sadness and reflection that we share the passing of Gary Dean Thomas. Though we only recently learned of his passing, Gary died on January 9, 2025, in Independence, Missouri, at Center Point Medical Center from a stroke and respiratory failure. His influence and memory continue to be treasured.

He was born in Joplin, MO, on November 21, 1958, to JL and Ogretha Thomas, both deceased. Gary was their only remaining son. His brothers, Francis Thomas, Raymon Thomas, JL Thomas Jr., and Anthony Thomas, all preceded him in death.

Gary was the youngest in his family, with a significant age difference; he grew up with nieces and nephews who were like siblings. He graduated from Memorial High School, where he won a state football championship and met his former wife, Rebecca Woolever. He referred to these as the best time in his life.

Gary and Rebecca married on November 19, 1979, and had five children together: Zachary Woolever, Serita Eldridge (Jerome), Gary Nathan Thomas, Joshua Thomas (Tramisha), and Jonathan Thomas. All of them survived him and reside in Joplin, MO.

Gary had a smile and a laugh that would light up any room. He loved sports, especially football. After high school, he played at Evangel College in Springfield, Missouri. His favorite teams were the Chiefs and the Royals, and after a lifetime of rallying around those teams, watching them both become Champions was a highlight in his life. He loved to attend the games of his children and grandchildren when he could and always had some advice and encouragement.

Above all things, Gary was a salesman; he could sell beachfront property in Oklahoma! He spent his early years selling vacuums and encyclopedias. He began using those skills in the construction industry, and at some point, he was operating as a successful contractor.

He loved to travel both for work and pleasure. He went on countless family vacations, and the best opportunity to bond was on these trips. He played games in the car, stopped at tourist sites on the way, watched movies, and reminisced on the past. When present, Gary lived in the moment, and being a man of few words, he loved you through action.

Gary is also survived by 19 grandchildren: Gaven, Navraja, Jaya, Kezziah, Georgie, Jamarion, Zacharia, Miranda, Kayden, Malachi, Meliena, Jonathan Jr., Jerrick, Lynen, Leland, Zoey, Myles, Zailey, Ariah, and nine great-grandchildren.

In addition to his family, other significant people in his life included his partner, Sarah Nelson, and her children-Mary (Steven), Carl, and Michael-as well as her five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Gary said that when he dies, he wants his ashes spread at Junge Stadium, as those years were the best of his life. A small memorial was held at Junge Stadium, where his ashes remain. His absence leaves a void in the lives of many, yet his legacy lives on. We find comfort in knowing that Gary is reunited in spirit with his first family.

Rest in peace, Dad. Your journey may have ended, but your story remains forever in our hearts.