Arthur Lee Thomas, Sr.

Arthur Lee Thomas Sr. was born January 28, 1953, to Ethel Cornelius Stennis and Henry Van Thomas in Weiner, Arkansas. Arthur was one of nine brothers and two sisters. The family eventually moved to Omaha, Nebraska. Arthur attended Conestoga Elementary School and Technical Junior and Senior High School in Omaha, Nebraska. During high school he worked at Sid Thelma and Shrago Grocery Store. After high school, Arthur worked for various construction companies. Arthur was united in marriage in 1975 to his childhood sweetheart Sis Diane Jamerson whom he had known since fifth grade. To this union, five children were born. Arthur and Diane this past February celebrated 51 years of marriage.

For a brief time, Arthur had his own carpet company called TLC Carpet. With his experience and skills, he gained in the carpet business he became a master at his craft. Art soon landed a job with Baldwin's Carpet Company where he held the positions of tile and carpet layer for over 35 years until his retirement. He was a member of the Omaha's Local Carpet Union. His skill and dedication to his craft can be seen throughout the city of Omaha. Mr. Baldwin often said that Art was the best worker he ever had. Arthur loved his family. He was a character amongst those who knew him, always making everyone laugh. One of his favorite foods was cookies, so much, that he acquired the name the Cookie Monster. Art disliked an unclean kitchen; he was known for keeping the kitchen clean. Scrubbing counters, washing dishes was a joy to him, and you could find him down on his hands and knees sweeping and moping the floor. Arthur loved music, especially jazz. He was known for playing the guitar and keyboard. He gave his nephew, Brandon his first keyboard and even taught him lessons, and wow, look at Brandon now, Thank you Arthur.

Arthur was baptized in Jesus name at Greater Bethel Temple church. He enjoyed the choir singing when he attended services, and oh, he loved to hear Bishop Gould preach. He also loved to fellowship with the saints after service. Arthur loved First Lady Gould and Bishop Gould. His favorite scripture is Psalm 23. To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven. Arthur's time and purpose on earth ended July 7, 2026, when God called him to rest. We thank God for the time he gave us with him. He will truly be missed by all.

Arthur was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: JC, Samuel, Melvin, Van and Henry. Sister, Ethel and son Arthur Thomas Jr. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 51 years Diane Thomas. Sons, Lafonzo (Maretta), Rondale (Ashley) Thomas. Daughters, Shafonda and Shalisha Thomas, all of Omaha Nebraska. Brothers, Sherman, Isaiah and Marcus Thomas and Fred (Corene) Stennis, 12 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

CELEBRATION OF ART'S LIFE: Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 11:00am, with VISITATION one hour prior to the service, all at Greater Beth-el Temple (1502 N 52nd St, Omaha, NE 68104)

Repast immediately after the service at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 15050 W. Maple Rd. Omaha, NE 68116