Richard Lawrence "Curly" Thomas

Richard Lawrence “Curly” Thomas, 74, of Whitesboro, Texas, passed away at his home on Monday, July 20, 2026.

Curly was born on December 26, 1951, in Columbus, Ohio, to Lawrence Everett Thomas and Dorothy (Amos) Thomas. He graduated from Pickerington High School in 1970 and proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps for two years during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Curley earned an associate’s degree in Equine Science from Ohio State University and spent more than 40 years working as a respected farrier.

Curly had a passion for the western way of life and especially enjoyed calf roping. He also loved gathering around the poker table with his grandchildren, who were truly the pride and joy of his life. He cherished every moment spent with his family and leaves behind many treasured memories.

He is survived by his loving wife, Georgia Thomas of Whitesboro; sons, Hank Thomas and wife, Kelley, of Magnolia, Texas, Luke Thomas and wife, Jennifer, of Sadler, and Clint Thomas and wife, Brooke, of Gunter; daughter, Kaleen King and husband, Josh, of Valley View; grandchildren, Lacey Thomas, Kaitlyn Thomas, Kale Thomas, Chloe Thomas, Lucas King, and Ellie Thomas; brother, Wes Thomas of Ocala, Florida; and cousin, Tina Hockler and husband, Jim, of Hilliard, Ohio.

Curly was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence Everett and Dorothy Thomas, and his mother-in-law, Mary Lubbers.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Whitesboro.  Funeral services honoring Curly will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, August 3, 2026 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Gainesville.  A reception will follow the services at the church.