Evelyn & T.J. Thomas

Evelyn Jean Thomas, 72, lovingly known as Tiny, passed away July 11, 2023. Tiny was born April 21, 1951, in Driver, Arkansas. She was born to Otha and Betty Lockett. She was preceded in death by her parents. Tiny was also preceded in death by her husband TJ Thomas, last year on September 21, 2022. They had been married for 41 years. Tiny did not have any children of her own but, all her nieces and nephews filled a void. She shared in raising and feeding several generations of these nieces and nephews. And by extension many foster children became close family as well.

Tiny was born into a large family of siblings: Her sisters: Annie (deceased), Joyce, Michelle, Ophelia, and London. Her brothers: Tony, Terry, and Kevin. Tiny was known for her fried chicken, fried pork chop and onion sandwiches, and her buttery popcorn. Tiny was also known as ‘Jeannie’ and ‘Auntie’ by her close family and friends.

The family of Evelyn Thomas would like to say a special thanks to: Mama Rose, Renee’, Johnnie, and Joan. Please know that you were not only special to Tiny, but you were special to our family as well. Your care and concern for her and TJ was always appreciated. Thanks for the watchful eyes and the phone calls when you were not sure that they were feeling well. We thank you! Kairos Dwellings (The Entire Staff) Wings of Hope Hospice (The Entire Staff) Fresh Perspective Home Health Care (Hope, Shelly, Joan) TJ Thomas, 67, passed away September 21, 2022, at the Galesburg nursing home.

TJ was born February 17, 1955, in Clarksdale, Mississippi to Rosie Lee Murry. Before his passing he was survived by his wife, Evelyn ‘Tiny’ (now deceased) and brother David Lee of Chicago. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mrs. Rosie Lee Murry, Wardell, Ladell, and Willie Lee of Florida. Favorite cousins Smitty and Joey and his long-time best friends Ronnie and Donald Coleman. He enjoyed fishing and talking with his family and friends on the phone. TJ always answered the phone in a comical way... “Yo, yo, yo” or “This Mr. TJ.” Please know that TJ spoke with affection regarding his siblings and family. A host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Special thanks to: The Laurels of Galesburg Nursing Home Fresh Perspective Home Health Care

We would like to take the time share a few thoughts: We would like to say THANK YOU to TJ’s family. As many of you were fully aware that Tiny was diagnosed with terminal cancer before TJ passed away. Tiny was extremely sick at the time of TJ’s passing. Not to mention she no longer had her husband of 41 years. She affectionately called him: ‘My Baby.’ She became depressed and anxious. She did not have the strength to plan a funeral while she was in poor health and full of sadness from her loss. So, a special thanks to all of you who stopped by, sent a meal, gave a phone call, and sent cards; not just at the time of TJ’s passing but, in the months that followed. May your family hold close the shared memories of Tiny and TJ. May those memories bring you comfort in the days ahead, as both families deal with the loss of loved ones.

Reception will be held at: Saturday July 22, 2023 1-4 pm Kindleberger Park 122 N Riverview Drive, Parchment, MI 49004 There will be signs at the park to show where we are hosting the event. Any questions call or text: Michelle 269-207-5145 or Dhanisha 269-548-6866 If you would like to bring a dish and drink to pass, please call to see what is needed. THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH!!! Let’s remember that this is a dignified occasion even though it will be held at a park!!