Willard Thomas

FORT WORTH -- Willard Young Thomas, 76, passed away Saturday, April 21, 2012, at a local hospital.        Funeral: 11 a.m. Tuesday in the Lucas Keller Funeral Home Chapel, 137 E. Hill St. Inurnment: at a later date. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.        Willard was born Dec. 25, 1935, in Fort Worth to Raymond Earl and Madge Belle Rassmussen Thomas. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma, Class of 1958, Phi Beta Kappa with a bachelor's degree in journalism. He went on to receive a master of arts degree from the University of Tulsa.        Willard retired as a major from the United States Marine Corps with over 20 years of service, including tours during the Vietnam War.        He advocated veterans' interests through various military organizations throughout his life. He also held various positions in the community for business consultative services.        Willard was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; and his daughter, Lara.        Survivors: Wife of 30 years, Cinda L. Thomas; sons, Ray Thomas and wife, Debbie, Keith Laurence Thomas, and Mike Thomas and wife, Brooke; daughters, Laura Cinda Thomas, Julie Miller-Kraatz and husband, Matt Kraatz, and Cathie Klapprodt and husband, Joel; nine grandchildren; and many loving extended family members and friends. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Willard Thomas please visit our Sympathy Store.