Lucille "Ludy" Ruth Thomas

Lucille "Ludy" Thomas, a cherished matriarch and beacon of love, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, in Dothan, AL, at the age of 91. Born on February 24, 1934, in Tell City, Indiana, to Fred and Orpha Laura McDaniel Montgomery, Ludy grew up surrounded by a large and loving family. Her journey through life was marked by an unwavering dedication to her family, a passion for nature, and a legacy of service that touched many lives.

Ludy's life was one of constant movement and adventure, much of it alongside her beloved husband of over 50 years, the late Paul E. Thomas. Together, they raised a family that was both large and exceptionally close-knit, instilling in them values of love, resilience, and the importance of family ties. Ludy's heart was big enough to embrace not only her own children but also her 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immeasurable joy.

Her role as a landlady of a trailer park showcased her knack for creating a sense of community and belonging, while her time as a homemaker reflected the warmth and care she put into every aspect of her family's life. Her and her husband opened the family business, Tri-Glas Industries, which became a Fortune 500 Club, Ludy's commitment to service was evident in her tenure as treasurer and officer of the ladies' auxiliary in the Daleville VFW, where she made lasting contributions and formed enduring friendships.

Ludy's interests were as diverse as they were passionate. She was an avid fisher, a lover of gardening with a true green thumb, and an enthusiast of all things avian. Her home was often filled with the sound of birds and the beauty of flowers, reflecting her deep connection to the natural world. As a den leader for the Cub Scouts, she guided young minds with patience and kindness, leaving a positive impact on the next generation.

Her family fondly recalls the times spent in Indiana, where making syrup was not just a task but a cherished tradition. Ludy's love for her grandchildren was evident in every hug, every word of encouragement, and every moment spent in their company. She was the epitome of a loving and selfless soul, always putting others before herself and ensuring that her family felt her unwavering support.

Though she has left this world, Ludy's legacy endures through her sons, Doug (Kim), Kirk (Colleen), Dale (Lynnia), and Michael Thomas; her daughters-in-law, Janie, Tamara, and Linda Thomas; her 14 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 1 great great-grandchild; and a host of brothers, sisters, extended family members, and friends. Her special friends, Bill and Helen Hanson will always cherish her memory. She is preceded in death by her husband, Paul E. Thomas; her sons, Stuart, Little Paul, and Mark Thomas; and a few siblings.

Lucille "Ludy" Thomas lived a full and vibrant life, marked by love, generosity, and a spirit that will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will continue to bloom in the hearts of her loved ones like the flowers she so tenderly cared for in her garden. As we say goodbye to Ludy, we celebrate a life well-lived and a woman well-loved.

A celebration of Ludy’s life will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025 at 2pm in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Bob Williamson officiating. She will be laid to rest in Daleville Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service at the funeral home.