Monroe Thomas, Jr.

A Life of Faith, Music, and Love Monroe Thomas, Jr., was born on December 8, 1941, to the late Monroe Thomas, Sr., and Jessie Lee Caldwell in Oakdale, Louisiana. He was baptized at an early age at Star Light Baptist Church, marking the beginning of a lifelong walk of faith that would guide his steps and sustain his spirit. Following the passing of his beloved mother, Monroe was lovingly raised from the age of five by his devoted stepmother, Minnie Jordan Thomas, who nurtured him with grace, care, and strength. Gifted with a beautiful voice and a deep love for music, Monroe began singing as a young boy and would later become the lead singer of the Rainey Brothers Band. His passion for performing continued during his college years at Southern University, where he graced countless stages at clubs and talent shows. While at Southern, Monroe earned his degree in Mathematics and met his first wife, Emma Jean Turner, who preceded him in death. They eventually relocated first to New York and then to Union City, New Jersey. Their union was blessed with four children: Michael, Keisha, Rita, and an adopted daughter, Roneta. A Song in His Heart Monroe’s deep passion for singing reflected his soulful connection to both gospel and blues. While living in New York, his musical gifts opened new doors when he connected with the Poindexter Brothers and Jacqueline, who helped him sign a recording contract with RCA/Victor Records. Performing under the stage name “Tony Mason,” Monroe recorded several songs, including the crowd favorite, “We Gonna Bring the Country to the City.” Although he once considered furthering his musical career, life’s unexpected turns redirected him toward new opportunities. Guided by resilience and an enduring entrepreneurial spirit, Monroe found great success in business and leadership. Faith, Family, and Fellowship The family would later move to Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, where they joined Mount Zion Baptist Church in Westwood. There, Monroe continued to share his gift of music—lifting hearts through gospel—as a devoted member of the Mass, Senior, and Gospel Choirs—and faithfully served as a respected member of the Trustee Board. In New Jersey, Monroe secured a managerial position with Letraset USA, Inc. The family settled into a modest two-bedroom home that he lovingly expanded and designed to create a place for intimate gatherings and lasting memories. The family often enjoyed activities like badminton, basketball, bid whist, dominoes, and afternoons spent by the pool. He cherished hosting large holiday gatherings, barbecues, Super Bowl parties, and card nights. After leaving Letraset, Monroe’s entrepreneurial drive inspired him to open Linda’s Chicken, a family-owned franchise that became a local favorite. In 2010, Monroe joyfully reunited with the Poindexter Brothers and returned to the studio to record the album “Recession Blues,” rekindling his lifelong love of music. A Legacy of Strength and Grace Known affectionately as “Uncle Sonny,” “Sonny Boy,” and “Monie,” Monroe was a revered patriarch who stood tall both in stature and in spirit. Though his presence could seem firm and commanding, those who knew him best saw the depth of his compassion, wisdom, and faith. Monroe lived by his convictions and encouraged everyone around him to grow, take chances, and trust in God’s Word. He often reminded his loved ones that “living life means making room for all the lessons that come with our choices, wherever we are.” Surviving Family and Remembrance Monroe is survived by his three loving daughters, Roneta Davis, Keisha Diallo, and Rita Thomas, and his cherished granddaughter, Nakila Thomas. Preceding him in death was his only son, Michael Thomas. To treasure his memory, he is also survived by his sister, Lula Pearl Goodwin (William). He was preceded in death by his sisters, Gladys Jean Jackson and Rosie Lee Ceaser (Dorcelie), and by his brothers, Clarence Hall (Shirley) and Tommy Hall (Brenda). Monroe leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever hold and cherish his memory close. “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 Rest in peace, Dad—we love you. You will forever remain an ornament of grace, honor, and wisdom in our lives. Services entrusted to Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home, 4347 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur, Georgia 30034.

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Monroe Thomas, Jr.

December 8, 1941 - October 11, 2025