Wendell Murray Thomas, Sr., age 84, of Red Banks, Mississippi, took his first
heavenly breath on Saturday, May 30th, 2026, at Trinity Healthcare Center in
Columbus, Mississippi. Born on June 7, 1941, Wendell lived a life marked by
quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Wendell was a member of Red Banks Baptist Church, in Red Banks, MS. He
worked with Synergy Gas Company and proudly served in the Army National
Guard. He was also a dedicated member of the Holly Springs Jaycees.
He loved all things outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Yet his greatest
loves were always his family — his children, grandchildren, and
great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable pride and happiness. He
cherished every moment spent with them.
Wendell is survived by his daughter, Kim Thomas Woodruff (Jimmy); his son,
Wendell Thomas, Jr., and three grandchildren: Thomas Woodruff (Kristyn),
Katelyn Woodruff Fishel (McKellar), and Wendylynn Jamieson. He also leaves
behind his great-grandchildren — Parker Louise Woodruff, Brooks Thomas
Woodruff, and Hopelynn Chandler — who were the light of his later years.
Wendell is also survived by two sisters, Eunice Joy Barksdale and Judy Ray
Howell, along with several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny Thomas and Gladys Johnson
Ray; his stepfather, Vardaman Ray; his former wife, Shirley Alderson Bell; his
brothers, Bobby Thomas and Roland Thomas; and his sisters, Johnnie Mae
Bellinger and Carnese Dancy.
Graveside services will be held on Friday, June 5th, at 11:00am, at Red Banks
Cemetery in Red Banks, Mississippi. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that
memorials be made to Red Banks Baptist Church (Red Banks, MS), Fairview
Baptist Church (Columbus, MS), or CrossPointe Church (Olive Branch, MS).
He will be deeply missed.