Donald Austin Thomas

Donald Austin Thomas was born October 9, 1923, in Schenectady, New York, the son of Elmer James and Rachel Auyer (Tifft) Thomas. He departed this life Monday, September 16, 2013, at Fulton County Hospital in Salem, Arkansas, at the age of 89 years, 11 months, and 7 days. Donald served his Country during WWII with the US Army/Air Force and was an engineer with International Harvester for many years before moving to Horseshoe Bend. He was a member of the Horseshoe Bend First Baptist Church and a charter member of Horseshoe Blenders. Donald loved golfing, bowling, and music. He is survived by one daughter, Donna Hobbs of Rantoul, Illinois; three sons, David Thomas of Chandler, Arizona, Mark Thomas of Gloversville, New York, and Dean Thomas of Fort Wayne, Indiana; eight grandchildren; two great grandchildren; many other relatives and friends. Donald was preceded in death by three wives, Jeanne Thomas, Leonora Thomas, and Ann Thomas; his parents; and one brother, Richard Thomas. Funeral services will be held at Horseshoe Bend First Baptist Church at 2:00 PM on Sunday, September 22, 2013, with Bro. John Hodges, Bro. Eric Ertle, and Frank Wise officiating. Interment will be in the Violet Hill Cemetery in Violet Hill, Arkansas. Visitation will be held Saturday, September 21 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Horseshoe Bend Memorial Chapel in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas. Pallbearers will be David Thomas, Mark Thomas, Dean Thomas, Joe Hobbs, Mike Hilliker, and Frank Wise. Honorary pallbearers will be the Horseshoe Bend First Baptist Choir. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Horseshoe Blenders or Horseshoe Bend First Baptist Church.