Joseph Lerun Thomas was born on January 2, 1943 in Welsh, Louisiana.  His father was Sidney Thomas and mother Hazel LeBlanc.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, two brothers, John Bordelon and Elridge Thomas. Two sisters, Mary Ruby Bordelon and Betty Kennedy.  He was also preceded in death by his wife Zeddie Thomas, long time friend, Mary Pitre and step children Kenneth Wayne Howard and Venessa Howard.

He leaves to cherish his memories one surviving brother, Peter Allen Thomas and his step daughter Vanessa Howard and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews, in addition to countless friends.