Aron Jerderio Thomas

Aron Jerderio Thomas, affectionately known to many as Derry, peacefully passed away on October 29, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the age of 71, following a brief but valiant battle with illness. His departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.
Born on August 14, 1954, in the close-knit community of Snyder, Oklahoma, Aron was the cherished son of Ruby (Atkinson) Thomas and Ernest Thomas. During his formative years, Aron distinguished himself on the athletic fields, excelling in both football and baseball, where he formed lasting friendships and honed a competitive spirit that would serve him throughout his life.
A proud patriot, Aron honorably served his country for four years in the United States Army. Following his military service, he pursued vocational training in plumbing and HVAC in Altus, Oklahoma, which laid the foundation for a distinguished career. He was widely respected for his exceptional skills as a maintenance professional and handyman, known for his meticulous work, resourcefulness, and unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His dedication ensured that many homes and businesses ran smoothly under his expert care.
A man of profound faith, Aron was a dedicated and active member of Hawkins Chapel Church of God in Christ in Frederick, Oklahoma. His spiritual journey was marked by a deep commitment to studying the Bible, finding solace, wisdom, and guidance in its teachings. Beyond his faith, Aron's greatest joy came from the cherished moments spent with his beloved family, particularly delighting in the laughter and boundless energy of his great-grandchildren, whose presence brought immense light into his life.
Aron was preceded in death by those who held a special place in his heart, including his loving father, Ernest Thomas; his maternal grandparents, Aaron and Lottie Atkinson; his paternal grandparents, Percy and Ophelia Thomas; his father; his beloved daughter, Brandi Brown; three sisters, Shupann Atkinson, Larmeta Cobray, and Erna Robinson; and two brothers, Charles Thomas and Barry Thomas. He now rests reunited with them.
He leaves an enduring legacy of love and cherished memories with his devoted mother, Ruby Thomas Smith. Aron's memory will be forever treasured by his siblings: three brothers, Johma Thomas (Bonita), Rueben Thomas, and Todd Thomas; and three sisters, Joy Johnson (Mai-Gemu), Makalha Williams, and Ma'Shawn Johnson (Antonio). His spirit lives on through his nine children: sons, Alex Apples, Allen Apples, Jason Shandy, and Jasmine Manuel (Heather); and daughters, Rhonda Hughes, Natasha Johnson, Arianne Wright, Ebony Varner, and Latoria Thomas. He was also a loving grandfather to thirteen grandchildren: Michael Hughes, Diamonte Hughes, Ashonte Griffis, Brandon Griffis, Cincere Griffis, Timothy Brown Jr., Samuel Brown, Malcom Brown, Ashley Smith Jr., Sidney Smith, Jeremiah Smith, Dylan White, and Jace White; and a doting great-grandfather to four precious great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immeasurable joy.
A service to celebrate Aron's remarkable life will be held at 1:00PM on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at First Baptist Church, located at 923 East St., Snyder, Oklahoma 73566. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be directed to Brown-Thomas Funeral Home, 400 S. Sheppard St., Chickasha, Oklahoma 73018, to assist with funeral expenses or a charity of your choice in Aron's honor.