Charles Walter Thomas

Charles Walter Thomas, 91, of Norman, passed away Thursday, September 2, 2021, in Norman, OK.

Charlie was born to Eugene James and Arvie Arvella (Epps) on July 18, 1930, in Indianola, OK.  He grew up farming his family land in Indianola and where he married Willie Jo Bensen on May 10, 1951.

Charlie was drafted to serve in the Korean War from February 11, 1952, to November 12, 1953, where he was honorably discharged from the Army, earning the National Defense and Good Conduct Medals.

After returning home, Charlie and Jo moved to McAlester, OK where Charlie went to vocational school learning key trade skills such as welding, diesel and gasoline engine mechanic, and carpentry.  In 1960, Charlie and Jo moved to Norman, OK where Charlie worked as a diesel mechanic, volunteered as a Deputy Sheriff for Cleveland county, and was an active member of Immanuel Baptist Church.  After retirement, Charlie enjoyed playing dominos and cards with church members, family, and friends alike.

Charlie loved smiling and making people laugh. He was an avid outdoorsman where he enjoyed hunting and fishing. To his friends and family's amazement, every year his biggest fish always grew by a few inches!  “No such thing as fish stories!”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Arvie Thomas; his wife, Willie Jo Thomas; sisters, Jewel Pickle, Ona Clark, Rachel York, Lois Pickle, and Doris Thomas; and brothers, James “Buddy” Thomas, Billy Ray Thomas and Albert Thomas.

Charlie is survived by his daughter, Beverly Arvieux and husband Lowell of Moore, and grandchildren, Nathaniel, Austin, and Aaron, and great-grandchild, Luna; son, Mike Thomas and wife Sharon of Oklahoma City, and grandchildren: Joshua, Jonathan, and Coby.