Austin Thomas, Jr. was called home to his eternal resting place on Wednesday, February 22, 2012.

He was born to Austin Thomas, Sr. and Lillian Johnson-Thomas on February 11, 1941 in Lake Charles, LA.

He was reared by his great aunt, Mrs. Rosa B. Smith (Aunt Bee) who inspired his love of cooking and cleaning.  Shew as a great influence and instilled in him the love of Christ.  He became a member of the Christian Baptist Church at an early age and was baptized by the late Rev. W. C. Clark.  He was an active member of the Male Chorus, Bus Ministry and Social Committee.  He attended Second Ward Colored School and graduated from W.O. Boston High School in 1961.

He married his high school sweetheart, Willie Yvonne Davis and to this union two daughters were born, Kimberly Renae Thomas of Houston, TX, Dionne Maria Thomas-Pickens of Lake Charles, LA and one granddaughter, Gabrielle Renae Williams.  He retired from PPG Industries of Lake Charles and was a member of International Aerospace Workers and Mechanist Local Lodge 470.

He was a man that displayed a quiet strength and great sense of humor.  He loved people and acquired friends from all walks of life; never meeting a stranger.  He was dedicated to his duties as part of the bus ministry and was always ready to help anyone on need.  He enjoyed automobile detailing and was known for his unique designs.  He also enjoyed motorcycles, fishing, computers, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

He leaves to mourn his passing his wife and two daughters, one granddaughter, stepmother Lucy Mae (Jack) London, three sisters, Dorothy Ann Babineaux, Isabella (Wayne) Vital of Houston, TX, Bridgette (Randall) Davis of Lake Charles and god son, Emery Babineaux, Jr. of  Lake Charles, LA along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, aunt and sister, Lillian Moore.

His funeral will be at 11am Monday, February 27, in Christian Baptist Church on Franklin Street.  The Rev. Edward Alexander, Jr. will officiate.  Burial will be in Combre Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Combre Funeral Home.  Visitation is from 9am Monday in the church.