Vickie Lynn Haywood Thomas, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, wife, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2024. Vickie touched countless lives with her compassion, generosity, and passion for teaching.
She was born January 9, 1954, along with her twin brother, Ricky Glenn Haywood. Vickie was preceded in death by her father, Cecil Haywood, brothers Lyndell, Larry, and David Haywood. She is survived by her mother and dad, Patsy and Terry Casey of Perryville, TX, brothers Ricky Haywood and wife, Kathey of Lake Worth, TX and Gary Casey and wife, Janice of Perryville, TX.
She is also survived by husband, Tolbert J. Thomas of Flint, TX and sons Brian Thomas of Marshall, TX, Nicholas and wife Christal of Roanoke,TX, and Jeffrey Thomas and Kylee Caesar of Yukon, OK, as well as grandchildren Brennan McDermott, Liam and Owen Thomas of Roanoke, TX, Rylen Thomas of Yukon, OK, Jhasper Thomas of Marshall, TX, Timberly Bolt of Noonday, TX, and Tiffany Bolt of Hendersonville, TN.
Vickie was known for her volunteer work with the Boy Scouts in Alaska as a Cub Scout Leader and Boy Scout Committee Member. She was also an active member of her church, where she worked as a Children’s Sunday School Teacher and served in her church kitchen as chief dishwasher.
Vickie worked for 13 years in banking in many roles as a teller, new accounts secretary, bookkeeper, customer service representative, proof operator. At the end of her banking career, she worked as a floater. At 50 years of age, she graduated Magna Cum Laude from Cameron University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education where she served as Campus President of Southern Oklahoma Education Association, earned a scholarship for her leadership in education, and Top 10 Non-Traditional Student award.
After graduating, she worked as a 5th grade teacher, 2nd grade teacher, and spent most of her time teaching at risk students as a Math Interventionist. Her work with these students was very rewarding. She retired at 62 and became bored and returned to teaching after three years. She missed her interactions with students.
She loved music, all kinds of music. She learned to play the accordion as a youth and played in her Nannaw’s church. She loved humming a sweet hymn. She hoped to be remembered for her love and kindness and thankful for her love shared by her family and friends, but most of all she is thankful for the love of her Lord Jesus.
Vickie’s love for children and education was evident in every aspect of her life. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to nurturing young minds, treating her students as her own extended family. Her determination to see her students thrive and succeed knew no bounds, and she found immense joy in witnessing their growth and learning.
Deeply rooted in her faith, Vickie’s relationship with The Lord was the guiding force in her life. Her spirituality infused every interaction, inspiring those around her with her unwavering devotion and compassion for others. Vickie was an active member of her community, always willing to lend a helping hand and offering solace to those in need.
Among Vickie’s many talents she was particularly known for her delectable potato salad and deviled eggs. She found joy in cooking and experimenting with new recipes, always eager to share her creations with loved ones. She was passionate about researching and sharing family history. Vickie’s laughter, especially when teased by her brother Gary, was infectious, lighting up the room and bringing joy to all who knew her.
Family was paramount to Vickie, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. Whether gathering for Christmas dinners, summer vacations, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Vickie’s presence brought warmth and unity to every occasion. Her love for her husband, children, grandchildren, and extended family knew no bounds, and she took pride in being their rock, confidante, and caretaker.
Vickie leaves behind a legacy of love, selflessness, and unwavering devotion. Her gentle spirit, pure heart, and boundless empathy will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she may no longer be with us in body, Vickie’s memory will forever live on in the lives she touched and the hearts she warmed.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Nicholas’ Pet Haven in Vickie’s honor.
Website: https://www.nicholaspethaven.org
Donation: https://paypal.me/nicholaspethaven
A celebration of Vickie’s life was held Saturday April 6th, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. at Tyler Memorial Funeral Home, 12053 State Hwy 64 West, Tyler, TX 75704.