Rodney Thomas passed away on March 12, 2026. Rodney will be remembered most for the way he loved people-unconditionally and without judgment. He believed deeply in showing kindness, compassion, and grace to everyone he met, and that spirit will forever remain the legacy he leaves behind.

A memorial service for Rodney will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, March 16, 2026, at Northminster Church in Monroe, with Rev. Jillian Hankamer officiating, under the direction of Mulhearn Funeral Home Sterlington Rd., Monroe. Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the church.

Rodney graduated from Ocean Springs High School and later attended the University of Southern Mississippi, where he earned his bachelor's degree and pursued specialized studies in grant writing. He went on to build a meaningful career as a rural and urban consultant, eventually founding Thomas Planning Consulting Firm, which he proudly owned and operated for over two decades. Through his work, Rodney dedicated himself to helping communities grow and thrive.

Later in life, Rodney also started his own cleaning business, pouring his heart and soul into it. What began as a business soon became a ministry, as Rodney used every opportunity to share God's love, kindness, and encouragement with the people he served. Whether through his professional work or daily interactions, he made it his mission to uplift others.

Rodney was known for his warm personality and the way he made everyone feel welcome. Those who knew him well will fondly remember the famous "Thomas Goodbye." A simple farewell was never quick—it could easily take thirty minutes or more and was filled with heartfelt "I love you's," warm hugs, kisses on the cheek, and just one more story or word of encouragement before finally heading out the door. It was simply Rodney's way of making sure everyone around him knew they were loved.

Rodney is preceded in death by parents, Marcel Thomas and Mary “Pie” Thomas.

Rodney is survived by his devoted wife, Paula Thomas; his children, Rachael and her husband John McIntyre, Jason and his wife Melissa Brown, Carrie Brown, Nicholas and his wife Kele Brown, and Patrick and his wife Jessica Thomas; and his siblings, John Thomas, Glenn Thomas, and Marlene Cole. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Hudson McIntyre, Beckham Brown, Riles Thomas, Maddyn Thomas, and Granger Brown, who brought him tremendous joy.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to PrimeStar Home Health, with a special thank you to Brandie Eppinette, as well as Elara Hospice Care and Dr. Brown Manning, for the compassionate and loving care they provided to Rodney during his time of need.

Rodney's life was defined by faith, service, and a genuine love for people. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering compassion will be deeply missed, but the love he shared so freely will continue to live on in the lives of all who knew him.