ALTAMONT — Erma J. Thomas, 87, of Altamont passed away early Thursday morning, Dec. 5, 2024, at the Good Samaritan Society in Parsons.
She was born on April 18, 1937, in Baldwin City to Ralph Waldo and Phyllis Marie (Griffith) Kline. Erma spent her early years in Baldwin City. She graduated from Baldwin City High School in 1955 and soon moved to the Chetopa and Bartlett area to be near her sister. It was there that she met Charles “Charlie” Thomas, the love of her life.
Erma and Charlie married on Jan. 29, 1956, at the First Baptist Church in Edna. Together they shared 60 years of love until Charlie’s passing on March 2, 2016.
The couple began their life together in Wichita, where Charlie worked for Boeing, before returning to Labette County. There they owned and operated a Phillips 66 gas station in Edna before founding Thomas Implement near Altamont. The family business became a cornerstone of the regional agricultural community. Erma played a vital role, managing bookkeeping and being an office manager until her retirement.
Erma’s greatest joy in life was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who cherished every moment she spent with her loved ones. Known for her warm hospitality and exceptional cooking, Erma created countless memories around her dining table. She also found joy in caring for animals and attending church, where her faith remained a guided force. She attended First Baptist Church and Western Way Cowboy Church, both in Altamont.
Erma is survived by her children, Sherry Harrell (Terry) of Altamont, Gene Thomas (Cheryl) of Altamont, Wayne Thomas of Boynton, Oklahoma, Larry Thomas of Altamont and Nancy Thomas of Kansas City, Missouri; 11 grandchildren; 23 grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Charlie; a grandson, Craig Thomas; a daughter-in-law, Julie Thomas; and two sisters.
The service will be at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at the Carson-Wall Funeral Home in Parsons officiated by the Rev. Greg Garrett. Burial will follow at the Elm Grove/North Edna Cemetery at Edna. The family received friends at the funeral home Monday. The family suggests memorials to the Altamont Recreation Commission or to the Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, and these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home,112 N. 26th St., P.O. Box 942, Parsons, KS, 67357. Leave online condolences at www.wallfuneralservices.com
