Manuel Joseph Thomas

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Manuel Joseph Thomas Jr, who passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 92 in Visalia, Ca.

Manuel was born on August 26, 1932, in Hanford, Ca to Manuel and Olivia Thomas.

Manuel’s early years were spent in Hanford where he attended and graduated 8th grade from Lakeside school on May 27th, 1947, following his graduation, he began working alongside his dad on the ranch.

As time went on, he married the love of his life Cora Lee Spring on January 20th, 1950.  Starting his new journey and his incredible work ethic he took on various jobs such as picking cotton, hauling hay and milking cows.  His dedication and hard work led him to a long-term position at Hanford High School where he served as a Head Gardener and Maintenance Man for 20 years until his retirement.

Manuel and Cora Lee were married 48 wonderful years, was blessed with 5 children, 14 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren.

Manuel was a beloved, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, great-great grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose life was a testament to his kindness, sense of humor, gentle spirit and wisdom he generously shared with everyone.

Manuel was a devoted family man who cherished every moment spent with his loved ones.

Manuel had a passion and participated in men’s softball for many years. He also found joy in coaching little league baseball and girls’ softball.  His passion for sports was then matched by his love and joy woodworking through which he created cherished heirlooms for his children, grandchildren, and family. Manuel’s talents extended to singing karaoke and dancing, activities that brought joy to his family and friends.

Manuel was proceeded in death by his beloved wife of 48 years Cora Lee Thomas, his parents Manuel and Olivia Thomas, brother Richard Thomas, Sister Cecillia Cotta, brother Clarence Thomas, son Terry Thomas, and grandson Manuel Duarte III.

He is survived by his wife of 5 years DeLila Schweizer, his children Melvin Thomas, Ella Sue Duarte, and husband Manuel, Corrine Phebus and husband Michael, Elaine Tadeo and husband Tony. His sisters Angie Hernandez and LaVern Cox.  His grandchildren Mike Thomas, Chris Thomas and wife Ericka, Amanda Thomas, Missy Thomas, Misty Scheesley and husband David, Melinda Schaub and husband James, Ruben Gaitan and wife Peggy, Terry Vaughn, Adam Thomas and wife Ronnette, Brett Phebus, Blake Phebus and wife Kelsey, Anthony Tadeo and wife Brittany, Paige Tadeo and Joshua Tadeo.  His great-grandchildren, Alexis Isaac, Davin Thomas, Elijah Thomas, Oliver Thomas, Logan Duarte, Dace Scheesley, Ethan Schaub, Shannon Schaub, TJ Vaughn, Aaliyah Vaughn, Kaitlyn Thomas, Nichole Phebus, Maylynn (Elkins) Phebus, Colten Phebus, Makenna Phebus, and Lena Phebus. His great-great grandchildren CJ Vaughn, Aden Vaughn, Mea Vaughn, Nevia Vaughn, Athenian Vaughn and Joe Joe Vaughn, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and his memory will forever remain in our hearts.

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