Elvie Ray Thomas

Elvie Ray Thomas, 87, of Caldwell, Idaho, passed away peacefully at home on December 25, 2018 in Caldwell, ID. Elvie was born in Clayton, New Mexico to Joel Everett Thomas and Mary Lusendia McGowen Thomas on July 10, 1931. He attended schools in Caldwell. He went on to earn a degree in Auto Mechanics and ultimately becoming a Service Manager for Edmark Motors from which he retired. Of course, his other job and passion was that of Musician (Guitar man). His music was what he was most proud of and deservedly so. Playing music in more establishments than we can remember let alone list. Elvie had been playing music and singing from a very young age and even jammed with Paul Revere and Mark Lyndsey when they were younger. Of course, he went on to pursue the Country genre of music, saying “if it ain’t Country, it ain’t music!” In the early 1990's, he and his wife Betty moved to Adrian, OR where they fulfilled another dream, establishing The Thomas Angus Ranch. In his later years, Elvie traveled to Arizona for the winter and had groupies who would follow him down and then come back to Idaho to continue hearing him play. He had several “bands” and fellow band members he played with over the years, again too many to remember and name. His love of music brought joy and happiness not only to him and his family, but to countless other people throughout his life. Elvie was also an accomplished bowler, playing on teams for league bowling at Talbot and Caldwell Bowl for many years, winning several trophies he was very proud of. Along with the pool tournament and golf trophies he won. He will truly be missed by many. Elvie is survived by his brother, Marvie (Ruth) Thomas of Caldwell. Daughter Pamela (Frank) Garcia, son Terry Thomas, Daughter Cindy (Jack) Gant, Son Jeff Thomas (Judy Baird) and daughter Tammy (Mike) Markel. Eleven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Joel and Mary, brothers Artie, Darlie, sisters Donnie, Bonnie, wife Betty Ann (Harlan), Ex-wife Juanita F (Jordan) and daughter Theresa. Flahiff Funeral Chapel in Caldwell will be handling the funeral arrangements. A viewing will be held on January 3, 2019 from 12:00-1:00 p.m. With graveside services to follow immediately after at Middleton Cemetery, Middleton ID. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to any cancer fund of your choice.