Jerry Leo Thomas Sr., age 83 of Hayward, WI, passed away Friday, August 22, 2025, at Water's Edge Care Center in Hayward.

Jerry was born February 25, 1942, in Bethlehem, IN, the son of Katherine (Wehunt-Hooker) and Ollie Thomas Sr. He was united in marriage to Sandra Lueloff on July 24, 1971, in Chicago, IL. Jerry grew up along the banks of the Ohio River in Indiana and Kentucky. He had an early love of Country Western Music and learned to play the guitar, most of his family on his mother's side were musicians. Jerry played music at bars and honky tonks throughout the country his entire life, he turned down offers to go on the road from several national recording artists because he didn't want to be away from his family. He had a real love of nature and absolutely loved the Northern Wisconsin life. Jery was well respected in his neighborhood and kept peace and quiet as needed. He had a large family spread throughout the country, but he loved them all and spoke often of them with fond memories in his heart. Jerry loved his wife and kids fiercely. Although he wasn't a tribal member of LCO, he was a well-respected elder on the reservation.

He is survived by his son Jerry (Kristin) Thomas Jr.; daughter Tina Marie Thomas; two grandchildren Brendan and Nathaniel Thomas; sister Tina Laird; brothers Sam Thomas, Tony Thomas & Joe Thomas; dear neighbors Steve & Diane Carlson; many nephews & nieces.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife Sandra; parents Ollie & Katherine; brothers Jimmy, Ollie Jr. Terry & Tony; and sisters Diana, Georgina & Patty.

A Memorial Service was held at 12:00 p.m., Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Pineview Funeral Service in Hayward. Rev. Brian Cole officiated. Visitation was held from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon, Thursday, prior to the service at the funeral home.