His Story
Cleveland Lee Thomas was born on May 21, 1941 in the Porter Springs community of Crockett, Texas, to the parentage of Freeman and Rosia Lee Parker Thomas.
Affectionately known as “Joe Baby” by family and friends, he was baptized at an early age and maintained his faith in the Lord all of his life.
Cleveland received his GED and provided for his family by working various jobs throughout his lifetime. His many employment ventures included the DMI furniture plant, Vulcraft, and in mortuary services with Barkley Mortuary and McClain-Clebourn Funeral Home. His longest and most enjoyable placement was as a bus driver in the Crockett ISD where he was known and loved. He later served as the transportation director.
Whenever there was spare time, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, listening to music, and participating in the brotherhood of the Masonic Lodge and Shriners.
On November 25, 2025, Bro. Cleveland Lee “Joe Baby” Thomas entered into eternal rest. He was preceded in transition by his loving wife (Lillian Fay Thomas), parents, and son (Cleveland Jarrod Thomas).
Left to honor his life and cherish his memory are his daughter, Crystal Jewel Nakasone (Ryan); 4 sisters-in-law: Rosie Washington, Wanda Holmes (Chester), Ruth Williams, June Bogan; one brother-in-law, Henry C. Guice Jr. (Ida), and a host of other relatives and friends.
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