Eddie Lee Thomas

Eddie Lee Thomas, 86, passed away peacefully Saturday, June 13, 2020. He was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama on March 27, 1934 to George Briggs and Maggie Davis Thomas Tarrant (James Tarrant). James was granddaddy to all of Eddie's children. Raymond Weary was a great role model to Eddie Lee Thomas. Eddie was an only child, but his cousins Clarence Weary Sr., Avie Wells, Virgie Murray, and Dorothy Mae Valentine were like his sisters and brothers. William Stonestreet and Freddie Stonestreet were his closest friends. Eddie graduated from Saint Martin DePorres High School. He earned a scholarship to Xavier University where he became a featured running back. Eddie's athletic prowess allowed him to set records in high school, college, and the United States Army. He was a strong candidate for a contract as an NFL pro, however, Eddie developed a medical condition that made him ineligible. His athletic nickname was FLASH!!! He worked at the Hudepohl/Burger brewery, but Eddie's independent spirit led to an entrepreneurial venture. He founded E.T. Security as a private company. Eddie was the leader of the Thomas Family and the National President and one of the Founders of Baker Davis Sanders Family Reunion Chapter. He loved God, family, sports, dancing, playing cards, music, and socializing. Eddie leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Minnie Thomas; eight children: Betina Kemp, Edward Thomas (Marie), Catherine Byers (Fred), Margaret Thomas, Diana Richardson (Dwayne), Joana Savage (Derrick), Ricky Thomas (Carol), and Brian Pharris (Lori); 23 grandchildren and 53 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and step-father, James Tarrant, who went home to see the Lord in 1978. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at James Temple Annex, 1119 Lincoln Ave, Cincinnati, Ohio 45206. NOTE: Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Ohio Governor and our city officials have set guidelines and procedures to follow during public gatherings of funeral services. These restrictions have been arranged with the family. Please allow the family to have their private time during the services being held at 12:00 p.m. A larger gathering may be held at a future date (to be announced) at the discretion of the family. Arrangements entrusted to the care of KINLEY Funeral Home.