Billie John Thomas

Billie John Thomas, of the Pack community near Rumsey, Kentucky went home to be with the Lord on Monday, October 23, 2023 at Baptist Health Deaconess in Madisonville.  Billie John Thomas was born September 26, 1936 in Rumsey, Kentucky to the late James Potter and Anna Lorene Brackett Thomas and married the former Rebecca Jane Willoughby on November 4, 1961. He served the United States as an Air Force Veteran during reconstruction after WWII.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Denise Thomas; brother, Charles Thomas; two sisters, Marjorie Rickard, Jean Coffman.

          He was a man of the soil, a farmer who found joy in the rhythms of nature. His hands, weathered by time and toil, were a testament to his commitment to the land. Prior to his farming days, He had a successful stint at the Tennessee Valley Authority (T.V.A.), where he was known for his diligence and hard work.
Billie was a proud member of the Pack Baptist Church.  His commitment to service extended beyond the church, as he was also a member of the McLean County V.F.W. Post #5415.  He was also a member of the Laborers Union local #1392 of Owensboro, where he advocated for the rights and welfare of his fellow laborers. He's interests were simple yet profound. He found solace in the tranquility of his farm, where he spent most of his time. His love for the land was a reflection of his love for life.

          Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Becky Thomas; son, Tommy Thomas (Tara); three daughters, Billie “Sissie” Sumra (Atul), Renea Jesperson (Rene-), Kris Arnold (Tracy); 10 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; sister, Grace Totton; and several nieces and nephews.

          Graveside services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Thursday at Poplar Grove Cemetery in McLean County with Rev. Bradley Troutman officiating.  Military Honors conducted by the McLean County Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Post #5415.  There will be no public visitation.  Muster Funeral Homes, Calhoun Chapel is handling the arrangements for Billie’s family.

          The Billie J. Thomas family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to Poplar Grove Cemetery Fund; P. O. Box 234; Sacramento, KY 42372

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