Vernie Ray Thomas, 96, of Perryton, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2021, in Perryton. Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021, at 11 a.m.. at Pontotoc cemetery in Pontotoc, OK with Ira Smith officiating.
Vernie was born in Ringling, OK to Johnny and Nancy Ellen (Baker) Thomas on Aug. 23, 1924. Vernie served in the Navy during WWII. He married Norma Lee Barrett on June 7, 1943, in Connorville, OK. She preceded him in death in 2001.
Vernie was member of the Masonic Lodge 910 in Perryton and was a Mason for over 60 years. Vernie was a member of the Church of the Nazarene in Woodward,OK. He loved fishing, and watching his great-grandchildren play ball. Vernie also really enjoyed playing dominos and bingo at the The Seasons with the other residents.
Vernie is survived by his children; two daughters, Pat Ellis of Perryton and Norma Dean Hall of Mooreland, OK; two sons, Vernie Ray Thomas, Jr. of Amarillo and Johnny Berk Thomas of Perryton; one brother, Johnny “Junior” Thomas of Pontotoc, OK; eight granddaughters, Kim and Frank Toms, Stacy and Jim Mosely, Carrie and Tim Olivarez, Tammy and David Douglas, Sharon and Birchie Stillwagoner, Malissa and Kimmy Thomas, Cathy and Ira Smith, and Ashley and Steve Gipson; one grandson, Chance and Evita Thomas; 23 great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; an infant daughter, Zelda Ellen; three sisters, Dorothy Faye Rogers, Roberta “Bo” Lanier and Mary Tiner; two brothers, Robert Dick, and RD Thomas; and two grandsons, Jerry Ray and Charles Ray Hall.
The family suggests memorials be sent in his name to the Ranger Academic Enrichment Foundation or one’s favorite charity.