Emmett Louie Thomas

To everyone who may not yet have heard the news, our dear friend Emmett Thomas Sr. died following a tragic accident. Emmett Louie Thomas Sr. was born on May 1, 1930 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Jack Thomas and Alberta Ross. When he was 10, his family migrated to Pixley, CA. However, Oregon was his internal compass and is where he resided for the majority of his adult life. At the age of twenty, on June 6th, 1950, Emmett proudly joined the United States Air Force. During the Korean war, he was part of the U.S. bomber force as a gunner, until it was discovered that he was proficient in languages. Then his primary job was as a translator. He was Honorably Discharged in 1960. Emmett valued education and loved learning. He earned a bachelor’s degree and was proficient in several languages. Any test that was given to him, he would score exceptionally well--most of the time in the top one percent. He was a very hard worker and worked for many different companies He was a meticulous painter and sandblaster for FMC Shipyard and a union member of Local 10. His hard work allowed him to raise a big family with his wife (of 16 years) Magdalena Duran. Later, he married Sherrie Howard who preceded him in death. Another accomplishment was that he was blessed not only to purchase land for his mom, but was also a home owner at a time when very few African Americans were given the opportunity to purchase homes. Emmett loved life and lived it to the fullest. He had many hobbies and interests. He liked to fish. Enjoyed listening to country, jazz, and Christian music and loved to watch western movies. Cooking was another passion of his. At one point he wanted to become a chef and open his own restaurant. On December 12, 2018 Emmett Thomas Sr., at the age of 88 was called home by his heavenly father. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack Thomas and Alberta Wilson; sister, Polly Brazzel; brothers, Richard H. Washington and McKinnely Washington; wife, Sherrie Howard, and by his son Manuel Kim Thomas. He is survived by: Children: Rachael Anita, Linda, Emmett Louie Jr., Daniel (Florence), Michael (Gemma), David, Debra(Charles), Lydia (Frank), and Yvonne. Siblings : Lydia Beatrice White, Robert William, Moses (Angela) King and Elijah (Alice) King and host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. As you are all aware, what has happened is beyond comprehension and we are all still in shock. Understandably the Thomas family is struggling to cope. The family thanks you for the love and support you have shown them over the last few days. We have already had numerous emails, texts and messages from people asking how to help, so this campaign has been created as a way to keep everyone up-to-date with plans, and also offer a place for messages and donations to be left. If you would like to donate to cover the unexpected funeral and medical expenses, just click on the donate button and donate whatever you can. If you are not able to donate don’t forget you can still leave messages and comments for the Thomas family to read. Also, make sure you follow this page so that you receive any updates regarding the funeral. If anyone has any questions or wish to send your personal support directly to the funeral home, please contact Weddle Funeral Service at 503-769-2423. Your kind thoughts and messages are much appreciated during this incredibly difficult time.