Joseph A.  "Coach" Thomas, 79, of Slidell, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at his home, on Monday, May 9, 2022, in Slidell.

Joe was born March 18, 1943, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He attended F. T. Nichols High School where he excelled in sports, specifically baseball.  He attended Southeastern Louisiana University on a baseball scholarship.  After graduation, he began his coaching career on the westbank where he coached for twelve years and won numerous championships.  He then moved to Slidell, Louisiana, where he coached and became a Vice-Principal from where he retired after 35 years.  He was also a St. Tammany Parish Councilman for twelve years where his motto was "If its important to you, its important to me".

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Thomas Sr. and Rosalie Lyons Thomas; and a brother, Henry Thomas Jr.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Arlene Protti Thomas; two sons, Brett Thomas (Buffy), Chad Thomas (Mary); two granddaughters, Morgan and Mina Thomas; brothers, Warren Thomas (Mary Ann), John Thomas (Kathy); and a sister-in-law, Rosemary Thomas.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2022, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 400 Westchester Blvd, Slidell LA 70458.

Visitation will begin at 10:00am, followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00am.

Burial will be in St. Roch Cemetery #2  in New Orleans.