Dr. Kerry Owen Thomas Sr., 65, passed away peacefully at Ochsner Hospital surrounded by family on July 14, 2016.

He was a native of Thomas, and a longtime resident of Amite. He was a member of the Thomas First Baptist Church.

He graduated from Thomas High School, where he was an All-State basketball player. He then received a basketball scholarship to attend Nicholls State University. After graduating, he obtained a master’s degree from Southeastern Louisiana University, followed by a doctorate degree of education from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, Miss.

He was a real estate broker for almost 40 years. He had an entrepreneurial spirit and held numerous business licenses. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother and uncle. He enjoyed shooting pool, planting watermelons, watching basketball games and fishing with his grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, R.O. and Nelline Thomas; his brother, Richie Thomas; and two infant siblings.

He is survived by his children, Dr. Nancy N. Thomas and husband Dr. John W. Boyle IV, and Kerry Owen Thomas Jr. and wife Jessica Thomas; his siblings, Dianna Thomas and Dr. Jerry and Lou Ann Thomas; his grandchildren, Benjamin Thomas Boyle, Brooklyn Boyle, and Elise Boyle; and his aunt, Margie T. Passman.

Visitation will begin at noon on Sunday, July 17, at Crain Funeral Home in Franklinton. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. with pastor Shadd Pittman. Burial will follow at the Thomas Mausoleum.

Pallbearers will be Norman Poole, cousin Johnny Passman, nephews Dr. Jason Thomas, Pete Thomas, Lander Thomas, and son-in-law. Dr. John Boyle.