Clyde Franklin Thomas, Jr.

Clyde Franklin Thomas, Jr., 65, of Muskogee, OK was born August 27, 1959, to Clyde and Jewel ‘Maxine’ (Phillips) Thomas, Sr. and peacefully passed away Thursday, July 24, 2025, at his home with his daughter, Kristin, by his bedside. Clyde was a dedicated and innovative business owner in the dirt work industry, known for his meticulous work ethic, strong leadership skills, and commitment to delivering exceptional and durable results for every project he undertook. He was proud owner of Muskogee Paving, where he met and cherished the lasting relationships he made throughout his career. He was a passionate and adventurous spirit whose love for life was evident in every moment he spent fishing in serene waters, meticulously building vintage cars, and gracefully riding horses across open fields. Clyde embraced the thrill of the hunt and cherished the warmth of family connections, always making time for joyful lunches with his dear friends Boyde Webb, Tody Etchison, Pete Peterson, Jack Walford, and his beloved daughter, Kristin. His kind heart and vibrant laughter will be deeply missed, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories and a profound impact on all who knew him. Clyde was preceded in death by his wife, Pamela Diane Sutton Thomas; the mother of his daughter, Rhonda Darlene Shanks Thomas; stepson, Bryan Cole; his parents; and a close friend, Jack Wofford. He is survived by his daughter, Kristin Ellis and husband Steve of Muskogee, OK; son, Rusty Thomas and wife Whitney of Muskogee, OK; stepsons, Jeremy Shanks of Coweta, OK, and Shane Frazier and wife Michelle of Memphis, TN; sister, Sharen Wallace and husband Jimmy of Muskogee, OK; grandsons, Beau Thomas of Muskogee, OK, and Jason Tomlinson of Fort Gibson, OK; granddaughters, Emery Thomas of Muskogee, OK, Raegan McKee of Muskogee, OK, and Elizabeth Arnold of Fort Gibson, OK; great-granddaughter, Viola Marie Ellis of Warner, OK; nephews, Eddie Shanks of Owasso, OK, and Ryan Hoog of Gore, OK; niece, Monica Hoog-Gage of Coweta, OK; many cousins, extended family and many friends. The family wants to give a special thank you to everyone that came to visit him; he was so happy to see everyone and enjoyed visiting with each and every one of you. Clyde’s life will be celebrated 10AM Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Greenhill Cemetery Pavilion in Muskogee with Chaplain Anna Lowe officiating. The family of Clyde Franklin Thomas, Jr. has entrusted his care, cremation, and service to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home and Crematory in Muskogee. 918-910-8883. Online condolences may be left for the family at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com.

Clyde Franklin Thomas, Jr.

August 27, 1959 - July 24, 2025