Nick Thomas

Nick Thomas, 79, of Canadian, passed away on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 in Amarillo.

Graveside services will 10:00 AM Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at Washita Cemetery with Pastor Donald Hill, pastor of The River Ministries, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors of Canadian.

Nick was born on March 9, 1947 in Madill, Oklahoma to Cleve and Imogene Thomas. He graduated from Madill High School in 1965. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1966. Nick was in the Corp of Army Engineer division in Thailand. He operated heavy machinery as they were building roads prior to the Vietnam War. Once he returned to the states, he enrolled in Murry State College in Tishomingo, Oklahoma to study drafting.

In 1972, Nick went to work for the sawmill in Canadian. He worked there for a short time before he started doing dirt construction. Nick started Nick Thomas, Inc. in 1977. He worked until his retirement in 2006.

On November 10, 1973, he married Shelli Rhea in Amarillo. They have celebrated over 52 years of marriage. Together they had two children, Nicholas and Tiffany. Nick was a mason, part of the Scottish Rite, and 32nd degree mason. He also was a member of the American Legion. He loved animals and especially had a love for exotic animals. In the early 90’s, they had their own safari that housed many exotic animals. Nick had a love for old cars, military vehicles, and guns.

Nick had a rough, tough exterior, but beneath it was a heart of gold. He was strong-willed, hardworking, and always willing to help others whenever he could. He valued simplicity, kept his circle small. He spoke volumes through the way he worked, cared for others, and remained devoted to the people who mattered most to him. He loved his family deeply and will be missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Shelli of the home; son, Nicholas Thomas and wife Natasha of Canadian; daughter, Tiffany Longbine and husband James of Amarillo; sister, Jean Ross of Amarillo; he was “Bapa” to his seven grandchildren, Sterling Thomas, Stella Thomas, Scarlett Thomas, Sloane Thomas, Hanna Longbine, Kinslee Owen, and Kreed Longbine all of Amarillo; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials can be sent to Shriner’s Children's Hospital.