Rev. Dr. Willie Ray Thomas Sr.

CELEBRATING

The Life & Legacy

Obituary

Dr. Willie Ray Thomas Sr.

October 16, 1938 – Easter Sunday, 2025

Dr. Willie Ray Thomas Sr.  was born on October 16, 1938, in Dallas, Texas, to the late J.C. and Leona Thomas. He was the youngest of three children. After the passing of his mother when he was just five years old, Willie Ray and his siblings moved to Marlin, Texas, where they were raised by their aunt, Lorene King.

He received his early education through Marlin Public Schools and later returned to Dallas when his aunt became ill. He attended Booker T. Washington High School, where he played his favorite sport—football—and completed his education. It was during this season of life that he accepted Christ at Upper Zion Baptist Church under the late Pastor Nape.

Affectionately known as “Pastor” or simply “Ray” by family and friends, he was the last surviving member of his generation.

Ray began his working years at Johnny Truelove and the Adolphus Hotel before starting an extended career with LTV Aerospace. He later joined Otis Elevator Corporation, where he worked faithfully until his retirement.

In the late 1960s through the early 1970s, Ray was also active in the entertainment business as the lead singer of a group called The Stained Glass. The group toured and recorded multiple records, allowing Ray to travel and share his passion for music. While raising his family, he pursued this full-fledged music career before ultimately retiring from the entertainment industry to fully embrace his calling into ministry.

While attending school in Marlin, he met the love of his life, Claniel. They married and relocated to Dallas in 1961. To this union, three sons and one daughter were born and lovingly raised.

In addition to being a devoted husband and father, Ray served as a Little League football coach for many years—impacting not only the lives of his own children but also shaping and mentoring countless young boys in his community through sports and teamwork.

Ray became a devoted member of Paradise Missionary Baptist Church, where he faithfully served in numerous capacities over the years: as an Associate Minister, Sunday School Teacher, Adult Choir President, Teacher of the Senior Mission, and Deacon Board member. He also served as an advisor and teacher for The Christian Willing Workers, a citywide mission group in Dallas.

A lifelong learner, he earned a Bachelor’s degree through coursework at Bishop College and the D. Edwin Johnson Baptist Institute. He was licensed to preach under the guidance of the late Rev. Oscar Briscoe at Paradise Missionary Baptist Church. He later received his Master of Theology and Doctorate from the American International Bible Institute and Seminary (AIS) in Killeen, Texas.

In August of 1982, Pastor Thomas was appointed Overseer of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, then located at 705 Strangefellow Street. With divine vision and steady leadership, he incorporated the church in 1987 and oversaw the construction of a new building at its current location, 1222 Capps Street. Under his guidance, many were welcomed into fellowship, licensed for ministry, and spiritually nurtured.

Pastor Thomas was called home to be with the Lord on Easter Sunday—a day of resurrection and eternal hope. He is now reunited with his beloved parents, J.C. and Leona Thomas Sr., and his brothers, J.C. Thomas Jr. and Denver Lee Thomas.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of over 63 years, Claniel Thomas; his children: Eddie Ray Spears (Stephanie), Willie Ray Thomas Jr. (Tammy), Linda Faye Thomas, Stanley Thomas, and Jason Gerod Thomas; his godchildren: Al Alexander and Jeromica Kirk Halterman; 11 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and cherished friends.

Funeral services will be held Saturday April 26, 2025 at 11am at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church 1222 Capps St. with burial to follow at the Kirk Memorial Cemetery.  Visitation will be held at the Church Friday from 6-8pm.

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