Jessie Thomas was born on April 30, 1929, to Frank and Serilda Thomas. Jessie accepted Christ at an early age and was a longtime member of Greater Oldfield COGIC. He faithfully attended church until his health declined.

Jessie met Mae Ella Kyle, the love of his life, and they were married on September 17, 1955. To this union, three children were born: Brenda, Patricia "Pat," and Jessie Andrae "Sonny."

Jessie began working in pulpwood as a young man and continued into adulthood. He was a dedicated worker, later starting his own logging business. He spent over 50 years in the industry and employed many young men throughout his years. He enjoyed helping people and often said it was a blessing to do the work he loved. He shared his passion for hard work with his children and grandchildren, instilling in them the importance of strong work ethics. Jessie worked hard to provide for his family, and family was everything to him.

Jessie was preceded in death by his father and mother, Frank and Serilda Thomas; four brothers, Marcel, C.J., Elzie, and A.J. Thomas; five sisters, Annie Holmes, Josey Harris, Dorthy Nash, Christine Bluford, and Luvenia Thorn; his loving wife, Mae Ella; and his son, whom he loved with all his heart, Jessie A. Thomas.

Jessie Thomas leaves to cherish his memory: two daughters, Brenda Thomas Samuel (Jesse) and Patricia Kenebrew (Fredrick); grandchildren, Deltrick A. Thomas, Ashley J. Samuel, Jessica E. Martin, Britaimy Thomas, Ke'Andra Davis, and Jasmine Yarbrough; a host of great-grands, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; and a special caregiver who was like family, Kristi Agan.