Barbara Rea Thomas was born on December 25, 1949, in Monroe, LA and departed this earthly life on June 22, 2024, in Monroe, LA. Memorial services will be at 11:00 A.M., Friday, June 28, 2024 at First Methodist Church, Monroe. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Rev. Brian Mercer will officiate. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Kilpatrick Funeral Home, Monroe, LA.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Calvin Thomas; son, John David Thomas; parents, Ruth and Robert Rea; mother-in-law, Mary Louise Thomas; sister, Carolyn Rea Gaetano; nephew, Patrick Thomas and beloved family member, Linda Jane White Carr.
Barbara is survived by her children, Tonja Thomas Huenefeld and husband Frederick, James Edgar Thomas and wife Molly, John Calvin Thomas and wife Analeise; grandchildren, Thomas Huenefeld and wife Emma, Maggie Huenefeld, Hannah Huenefeld, James Calvin Huenefeld, Emma Huenefeld, Sadie Huenefeld, Abby Huenefeld, Naomi Huenefeld, Mae Huenefeld, Madeline Huenefeld, Mairin Thomas, Adair Thomas, Jack Thomas, Oliver Thomas; brothers, Bob Rea and wife Vevie, John Rea and wife Selene; sisters, Nancy Nelson, Margaret Perkins, Mary Schuler, Cindy Robertson and husband Dennis; brothers-in-law, Mike Thomas and wife Connie, Bob Thomas and wife Donna, Ron Gaetano; beloved nephew, Steven Carr.
Barbara was born with a servant’s heart and this was evident in all aspects throughout her life. Those she touched are too numerous to count and will forever remember her as a picture of the Lord’s goodness and kindness. After graduating from Northeast Louisiana University with a Master’s degree in Music, Barbara began working as the music director for the Delhi Presbyterian Church. This allowed her to forge many lifelong relationships through choir performances, piano lessons, summer youth group missions, and so much more. Later in life she began a career in real estate at John Rea Realty where she excelled greatly. She had the opportunity to serve and befriend her wonderful clients as well as mentor many young aspiring agents. Those who knew Barbara knew where she was every Tuesday morning at 9:30AM— leading her beloved Bible study. Guiding this group in the ways of Christ was her greatest joy.
The family she leaves behind will always remember Sunday dinners and birthday celebrations at her home where she could feed hundreds with the most amazing food you’ve ever tasted. She loved her family and cherished every moment spent with them. The family would like to thank Dr. Michael Cain, Allison Bertrand, NP, Dr. Kerry Anders and nurse, Leslie Bourg along with the staff of Louisiana Hospice and Palliative Care for their compassionate care. And special thanks to daughter-in-law, Dr. Molly Boyd Thomas for guidance, care and comfort.
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