Buford "Jackie" Thomas

Buford “Jackie” Mills Thomas, 77, of Whitney passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2021. A graveside service under the direction of Marshall and Marshall Funeral Directors of Whitney will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday, March 3, 2021, at Whitney Memorial Park with Rev. Eddie Boothofficiating. A visitation will be held from 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Wednesday, March 3, 2021, at the funeral home in Whitney.

Jackie was born December 13, 1943, to Sidney and Maudie Thomas. Jackie enjoyed raising miniature donkeys and Dutch belted cows. He was a very hard worker, who built his own home and enjoyed hosting Christmas get-togethers with his family and partner, Sarah Slayton. Jackie and Sarah enjoyed life together since 2002, they were devoted to each other and took care of each other through illness and hard times. He and Sarah enjoyed traveling together and he always had a great story to tell. His eyes sparkled when he talked about his travelling adventures, old cars, and music. He loved the town he lived in and often spoke of its history. Jackie was a loving and devoted grandfather who adored his grandchildren and loved spending time with them. He loved teaching the kids about working on cars, how to build houses, and other important life lessons. He loved to tease them with the story of how he lost half of his finger and he carried around Werther’s for the kids to enjoy. His smile shone brightly whenever his grandchildren were around.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Sidney and Maudie Thomas; 3 brothers, Rayburn Thomas, Elmo Thomas, and Travis Thomas; and one sister, Jimmie Nell Ashley.

Jackie is survived by the love of his life, Sarah Slayton; 1 brother, James Thomas; 3 sisters, Ladean Hill, Helen Wagner, and Mary Sue Brooks and husband, Welborn, of Whitney; sons, Chris Thomas and wife, Shawn, of Kennedale and Duane Thomas and wife, Danielle, of Burleson; step-daughters, Kristi and fiancé, Toby, Sharon and husband, Steve, and Donna; step-son, Shawn;  granddaughter, Brandi Atkins and husband, Jason, who took care of him faithfully. Other granddaughters close to Jackie are, Taylor and Madison Thomas, Amber Newton, Hollie Lowrance, Sandi Pincock, Sumer and Paige Barnett; grandchildren,  C.J. Thomas, Kaci Stiawalt, and Jeremy Gray, Amanda, Chris and Charlie Slayton, Alicia, Bruce, and Stephen Ingram, and Kelly Cantu.