Coretta Thomas

Coretta Thomas, a woman of profound strength and radiant grace, entered into eternal rest on April 29, 2026. Born on September 18, 1961, to James and Leavenell Thomas. 

Coretta’s life was a testament to devotion, family, and a spirited love for life.

A proud graduate of Longview High School, Coretta was a standout member of the "Class of 1980," where she served faithfully as a Viewette. She continued her education at Kilgore Junior College before embarking on a distinguished 34-year career with the United States Postal Service. Her colleagues knew her as a pillar of reliability, and she was looking forward to a well-earned retirement in January 2027. 

Coretta’s foundation was her faith. For over 50 years, she was a dedicated member of Red Oak Baptist Church, where her spirit was nurtured and her service was steadfast.

Those who knew Coretta will remember her zest for the finer things—whether she was masterfully cooking for her family, embarking on a new cruise adventure, or enjoying her "advocate" status as an expert retail shopper. She loved shopping with Amazon, Adidas, and beyond. She lived her life in her favorite colors: Pink for the gratitude of a life beautifully lived and Black honoring her enduring power, the strength she gave us to keep moving forward, even now."

Coretta was preceded in death by her beloved father, James Thomas Jr.

Her greatest legacy remains her family. Coretta leaves to cherish her memory two devoted sons: La Trestian Lanier and Jerkarius Thomas (Father, Jessie Thomas); and the light of her life, her granddaughter, Amil’lion Lanier all from Longview, Texas.

She is also survived by her loving mother, Leavenell Thomas; three brothers: Clifford Parker (Elizabeth), Rickey Thomas (Barbara), and Carlos Thomas (Charry); and two sisters: Patricia Thomas and Teresa Hawkins (Rickey). Her memory will also be held dear by uncles: Johnny Jewel Thomas Sr. (Fort Worth, Texas), Donald Lynn Parker (Longview, Texas), and Carl Parker (Detroit, Michigan); aunts: Lula Broadnax, (Fort Worth, Texas), Geardean Whitaker, and Carolyn Parker; special friends: Kevelyn “MeMe” Grant and Sandra Thomas; and, a host of relatives and friends whose lives she touched. Coretta also leaves her exceptional friend and best brother-in-law, Rickey Hawkins. Thanks for all you did for Corretta and her family.

Grounded in the strength she gave us and wrapped in the love she showed us, Coretta’s memory will be forever cherished. She remains our guiding light—until we all meet again."  

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