Thomas Young was the beloved son of Ernestine Lewis and the younger brother of Oliver Young. He was born on December 18, 1944, in Moss Bluff, Louisiana. He completed his early education locally and graduated from Washington High School in 1967. During his high school years, Thomas was a dedicated athlete, known for playing both sides of the ball, and earned the nickname “Congo” for being a fierce competitor admired as a spirited young man and natural team leader.

Thomas’ family founded Midway Baptist Church in 1914, where he was baptized at an early age. The church became the cornerstone of his faith and guided his walk with Christ throughout his life. He faithfully served as a deacon for over five decades, was a fisher of men, leading souls to Christ, and witnessing to those in need of guidance and encouragement. His life’s mission reflected his deep love for God and was rooted in stewardship, discipleship, and a genuine ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

In his family and neighborhood, Thomas was a surrogate father to young men who needed a role model. He devoted himself to mentoring others, and as the world became more challenging, he provided a haven for kids by building a basketball court in his backyard where they could play safely. He had two cardinal rules: no fighting and no foul language. He taught life lessons and mandated respectful apologies when lines were crossed.

Thomas was employed at Hercules/Himont/Bassell Plant in the petrochemical industry for 30+ years. Through his hard work and dedication, he ensured his children received a college education and that his home was always a place of refuge for family and friends.

Thomas had an intense love for football! His favorite teams were the Pittsburgh Steelers and Washington-Marion Charging Indians! For decades, he and his high school teammates could be found in the stands on Friday nights.

Listening to music was a favorite pastime, with Gospel and Blues feeding his soul. Sounds from James Cleveland, Sam Cooke, The Staple Singers, and The Mighty Clouds of Joy were often heard throughout his home. His face would light up when Etta James belted out “At Last”.

The other thing he was most passionate about was his family. He was married to his high school sweetheart, Virgie, for 57 years. For his daughter, Peaches, he was the wind beneath her wings. To his son, Trevis, he was the perfect example of what a man should be. He was truly a respected father figure to his son-in-law, Eric. For Quarshunna, he was an amazing father-in-law. To his grandchildren: Lenox, Croix, Hendrix, and Maddie, the apples of his eyes, he was affectionately known as “Grampie.” For Letrice, he was the world’s best “parrain” and godfather.” For Darrell, he was his rock and confidant.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ernestine; his grandfather, Archie Lewis; his bigmama, Viola Hawkins; and his brother, Oliver Young.

Cherishing his memories are his wife, Virgie; daughter, Dewana “Peaches” (Eric) Hill of New Orleans, LA; son, Trevis (Quarshunna) Young of Houston, TX; and his precious grandchildren, Lenox, Croix, Hendrix, and Madison; and a host of nieces, nephews, close friends, and other relatives.