MSG Kelvin Lynn Thomas, Sr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of MSG Kelvin Lynn Thomas Sr., who departed this world on July 24, 2025, at the age of 60. Born on February 4, 1965, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Kelvin lived a remarkable life filled with love, adventure, and service. A proud graduate of Jennings High School, he joined the Army in 1988 and dedicated 28 years of his life to serving our country, ultimately retiring as a Master Sergeant (E-8) in 2016.

Kelvin traveled the globe during his time in the military, but his heart always found its way back to Louisiana, where he settled down with his beloved wife, Terry Thomas in DeRidder. Together, they raised their three wonderful children, Kelvin Jr., Nicholas, and Arcella, and shared countless cherished moments as a family. Kelvin was not just a husband and father; he was a doting grandfather and an unforgettable friend to many.

Known for his love of fishing and perfecting the Sunday Roast (the best anyone could ever have!), Kelvin's laughter and joy for life were infectious. He had a passion for New Orleans Saints football and could light up any room with his dance moves. With his flair for entertainment, he even won competitions impersonating Michael Jackson. An accomplished boxer, he earned the title of Champion V Corps Boxer in 1989 while stationed in Gießen, Germany.

Kelvin is survived by his loving wife of thirty-seven years, Terry L. Thomas of DeRidder, LA; his daughter, Arcella Thomas; and his sons, Kelvin Thomas, Jr. of DeRidder, LA and Nicholas Thomas of North Carolina; brother, Wallace Thomas, Jr. and Jessica of San Antonio, TX; sister, Donna Faye Martin Bates of Jennings, LA; grandchildren, Brayden Magee, Caleb Magee, Keyallah Thomas Kalayah Thomas, Dominic Marks, Nicholas Thomas, Jr., Ann Marie Wildridge; fur babies, Brody Thomas and Leah Jane Thomas and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. His legacy of love and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Kelvin was preceded in death by his son, Nathaniel Wildridge, grandaughter, Natalie Grace Thomas; parents, Wallace Thomas, Sr. and Lillie Mae Thomas; brothers, Joseph Martin, Wilbert Lee Achane; sister, Patricia LaVan, Brenda Faye Williams.

A funeral service will take place at St. Paul Baptist Church in Jennings, LA on Friday, August 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM, preceded by a public viewing from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. We invite everyone whose lives were touched by Kelvin to come and celebrate his incredible journey and the joy he brought into our lives. Reverend Pernell R. Trent, Sr. will officiate the service. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at 12:30 PM at the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery located at 1610 Evangeline Rd, Jennings, LA.

Rest in peace, Kelvin Lynn Thomas Sr. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.