Carl "Sarge"

Ernest Thomas

Carl Ernest Thomas "Sarge", age 92, of Anderson, Missouri, departed this life peacefully on Monday, July 14, 2025, at McDonald County Living Center in Anderson, Missouri, after months of failing health.  He entered this life on November 9, 1932, in Austin, Texas, born to the union of the late Ernest Webster and Thelma Nadine (Meeks) Thomas.

Raised in Anderson, Missouri, Carl was a graduate of Anderson High Schools, class of 1951. His sense of duty led him to enlist in the United States Air Force on November 11, 1951. Carl served his country with honor and distinction for two decades, retiring as a Technical Sergeant on November 1, 1971. His military career was marked by a steadfast commitment to excellence and a deep love for his nation.

Upon returning to civilian life, Carl furthered his education, nurturing his passion for art at Crowder College and Missouri Southern State College (MSSC). Carl was a gifted woodworker and a talented artist whose creations brought joy to all who had the pleasure of seeing them.

Carl is survived by his four children, Bill Thomas and wife, Paula, of Anderson, Missouri, Kevin Thomas and wife, Kim, of Nowata, Oklahoma, Pam Curtis and husband, Larry, of Neosho, Missouri and Dr. Robert Thomas and wife, Ashley, of Grove, Oklahoma; eleven grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; a sister, Veldia Rideout of Rogers, Arkansas; two brothers, Richard Lee "Dick" Thomas of Topeka, Kansas and Danny Thomas of Cameron, Missouri; as well as a host of other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Webster Thomas and Thelma Nadine (Meeks) Thomas; and three brothers, Charles, Donald and Delbert Thomas.

Funeral services are 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 18, 2025, in the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Home with J. R. Burr officiating.  Burial with full military honors will follow at Neosho Memorial Park Cemetery.  The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel.  Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.

.