Jerald "Jerry" Vincent Thomas

Lafayette - A private memorial service will be held at a later date for Jerald Vincent Thomas, age 89, who passed away on Sunday, May 20, 2024, in Lafayette, Louisiana. Jerry was born in Mineappolis, April 26, 1935. He was born in the middle of a family of 7 children. His childhood memories included skating across frozen ponds and spending a lot of time outdoors and growing up with a big family. In his early adulthood he raced sports cars with the Sportscar Club of America and had many stories and memories of that time. He had dreams of moving up in the racing world and was always a "car guy" throughout his life. Unfortunity Uncle Sam had a different plan and he was drafted into the Army during the Koreqn War. He was stationed in Germany where he traveled Eupope in a VW Bug. Always an adventurer, this was the start of his love of International travel. After being discharged from the Army he returned to Minneapolis for a few years and worked as a buyer for Dayton Company, a leading Department Store chain. This required him to travel to NY monthly where he made may life long friends and memories. Wanting to move away from the frigid weather he moved his family to Corsicana, Tx. where he was a manager for a small chain of department stores. Later, moving to Houston, Tx. to prusue and opportunity with Joske Department Stores. During that time, he was recruited in to sales as a manufacturers representative in the home sewing industry. He was a rep for BGE Buttons , the top line in expensive designer buttons. He first covered the State of TX. and then California where he lived in Laguna Beach for many years. Jerry excelled in sales, winning many awards. Many of his customers became his good friends. Known for his sense of humor and great story telling ability he was often sought out at conventions and markets by his peers. During this time he became a private pilot continuing his love of travel and adventure. In 1981 he moved to Houston, Tx. and began a Real Estate career. He married his current wife, Marilyn. They lived in multiple states, including, Califorinia , Louisiana, Texas, Tennessee, and Virginia They shared a love of travel and traveled to many countries around the world. Jerry is remembered as a great host, for his storytelling, and his sense of humor. He will be dearly missed by friends and family alike. Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Marilyn Thomas; his grandson, Dylan Thomas; as well as his sisters, Two sisters Nancy Luken and Kathy Johnson both of the Mineappolis, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vincent and Mildred Thomas of Minneapolis, MN.; his three childern, Julie, Micheal, and Patricia Thomas of California; as well as his four siblings; Bill, Patrica, Jack and Joan of Minneapolis. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in "Jerry's Honor" to St, Jude Childrens Hospital in Memphis, TN. or any branch of Special Olympics. Arrangements have been entrusted to Cypress Funeral Home & Crematory, 206 W. Lafayette St., Maurice, LA 70555.

Jerald "Jerry" Vincent Thomas

April 26, 1935 - May 20, 2024