Collie William Thomas was born August 7, 1933, in Winn, Alabama to the late Shelly & Tennie Thomas. He departed this life on October 27, 2023.

Bro. Thomas was joined in Holy matrimony to Velma Darrington Thomas of Choctaw Bluff, Alabama on June 6, 1954. To this union seven children were born: Collie Jr., Calvin, Gloria, Emmanuel, Darlene, Kenneth, and Jennifer. In addition, the family included Sarah French, Collie's, oldest child.

Collie was baptized at an early age at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Winn, Alabama. He graduated from Clark County Training School in Coffeeville, Alabama. After completing high school, he furthered his education at Alabama State University in Montgomery, Alabama.

Upon moving to Lake Charles, he continued his fellowship with his Lord and Savior through Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church, under the pastorship of the late Rev. C. S. Keyes. Collie faithfully served as a deacon under four pastors at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church. He was a faithful member and servant in various ministries until his health failed him.

Once Collie relocated to Lake Charles, he began his career as a mechanic and truck driver for Concrete Pipe for 37 Years. During his employment for Concrete Pipe, he missed only one day of work!

Collie enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling, sports, and hunting. His witty personality was enjoyed by all, and he will truly be missed.

He leaves to cherish his memories, a loving wife of 69 years, Velma Thomas of Lake Charles, Louisiana. His children, Emmanuel (Geneva) Thomas of Sugarland, Texas; Darlene (Robert) Chapman of Jackson, Alabama; Kenneth (Juanetta) Thomas of Lake Charles, Louisiana; his sister Edrice Thomas of Jackson, Alabama; Thirteen grandchildren, twenty-five great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. A special God Child, Aspen Prince.

Collie was preceded in death by his parents, Shelly & Tennie Thomas; his children: Gloria, Sarah, Collie Jr., Calvin, and Jennifer; his siblings Fredrick (Fred) Thomas, Carleen Thomas, Thelma Williams, and Minnie McConnell.