Judge Burl Thomas

Burl Pressley Thomas, known affectionately as Judge Burl Thomas, was born on March 18, 1934, in Houston, Texas, to Milton and Lorene Thomas. He peacefully passed away at his home on June 17, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and laughter.

Burl is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Ruth Helen Thomas, and his cherished children: Cheryl Meistad, Rhonda Nicholson, Lisa Nicholson, and Cheryl Ialacci and husband Wesley. He is also survived by his brother Bobby Joe Thomas and wife Martha. Burl leaves behind a proud lineage of grandchildren: Cody Nicholson and Abbey Hebert, Hunter Hott and wife Veronica, Channing Solomon and husband Matt, Caleb Nicholson and wife Jessica, Roger E. Guynes and wife Kaleb, Michael Guynes and wife Tiffany, Kirby Kneale and husband Colton, and Guy Nicholson. His great-grandchildren include Cannon and Bristol Nicholson, Hunter II and Cooper Hott, Parker and Reid Solomon, Carson Nicholson, Maddox and Judson Guynes, Blayton and Bowan Guynes, Connor Kneale, and Eli Nicholson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Lorene Thomas, his brothers Royce Sr. and Bill Thomas, his sons Randy Guynes and Roger A. Guynes, his beloved granddaughter, Jenna Brooke Nicholson and his sons-in-law, Roger Lakey and Gary Meistad.

Burl was a dedicated family man and a long-time resident of Tarkington. He served his community with distinction for thirteen years as Justice of the Peace for Pct. 5 and contributed to various organizations including the Soil Conservation Board, Dayton Volunteer Fire Department, Cleveland Volunteer Fire Department, Farm Bureau Board, Cleveland Dairy Day Livestock Show and Rodeo, and the Board of Directors at Prosperity Bank. He was also the co-owner of Thomas Brothers Feed Store and a member of Oak Shade Baptist Church.

Among his many passions, Burl enjoyed driving around sightseeing with his wife, tending to farm and ranch activities, and spending time with his family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He could often be found savoring moments over coffee or sitting on the porch with loved ones, always with a pocket full of peanuts. He had a generous spirit, frequently gifting honey produced on his land as a token of gratitude to family, friends, and even strangers.

Burl was known for his unique circle handshake, and he always had a yellow bone Case knife in his pocket. He had a playful side, delighting in scaring people and pulling pranks on friends and family. He found joy in the antics of his chickens, especially when they would chase visitors who came to see him. He had a passion for music and was known to burst into songs on many occasions. The songs he would sing to his grandchildren are now being carried on to their children and cousins.

In his professional life, Judge Burl Thomas was recognized for his compassionate approach in handling juvenile cases, often employing unconventional methods to help young individuals learn from their mistakes. He had a special gift for connecting with children and was admired for his patience and understanding.

Services to honor Burl's memory will be held on Monday, June 24, 2024 in the Pace-Stancil Chapel in Cleveland with visitation from 1pm-2pm and his funeral at 2pm with Bro. Carl Williamson officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Shade Cemetery in Tarkington Prairie. Pallbearers will be Cody Nicholson, Hunter Hott, Caleb Nicholson, Roger Guynes, Michael Guynes, Colton Kneale, Matt Solomon, Blake Sudberry. Honorary pallbearers will be John Stockton, Tom Smith, Wesley Ialacci, Judge Bobby Rader, Judge Ronnie Davis, JB Nicholson, Greg Runge, Pat McLennan, and Commissioner Laddie McAnally.

Burl’s life was a testament to kindness, dedication, and a profound love for his family, friends, and community. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation - https://give.cff.org/65rosesclub/Donate