Pops was a second father to me. I remember growing up and hanging out at their house on Greenville across the street from Santa Ana Valley HS.

He treated me like a son and not just a friend of Clayton’s. At that early age Clayton and I became brothers Pops became a second dad. This was my extended family.

I remember Pops would always stand out in the front yard and waive at cars passing by or people walking with the biggest smile. I always thought he knew everyone. I asked him do you know them? He said no but they know me now with a big smile on his face. He told Clayton, a wave and smile doesn’t cost him anything. Basically he had the ability to make people smile no matter what kind of day they were having.

His heart and good spirit is a blessing for anyone that ever came across him and his smile was contagious that if you didn’t know him you felt that you did!

I remember when Clayton and I got our first apartment in Costa Mesa. At first Clayton only slept in his room on the weekends on a futon because he was afraid to tell Pops.

But I had a feeling that Pops had an idea and knew something. Because in time Clayton was spending more time at our apartment than at home. He would just smile and ask us how’s the apartment and if we needed anything.

He would say family takes care of each other and Clayton and it was obvious that Clayton and I was more like brothers. He would say we need to always take care of each other and look out for each other’s back.

Pops would come over and fix things, like our heater when it went out. All we said was we were cold and our heater stopped working. Next thing we knew he was knocking on our door with a huge smile, blue overalls and a tool belt and fixed our heater before we had to call the landlord.

That is just the type of person he is, caring, thoughtful with the greatest sense of humor.

As I got older and up to this point I will always cherish the memories and love we shared through the years.

Pops, thank you for always taking the time and conversations, advice, and being a big part of my life. Thank you for always lifting my spirits and reminding me to not focus on what I don’t have or the problems in my life but to appreciate all the good things in my life. You always had a way to turn my negative to a positive. It changed my whole thought process. You reminded me how to laugh more! Especially all the funny conversations and joking back and forth!

Even Clayton was not aware how often we spoke until you would tell him that you spoke to your other son. After all our conversations we always would end by saying I Love You.

You will always be in my heart! I talk to my heavenly parents often and will do the same with you! Thank you for being a part of my life!

I love you Pops. Until we meet again! Rest in peace! And keep smiling!

Hello All, I'm not sure how many of you all remember Mr. T. He is the father of Clayton, Wanda and Lee Linsey. He live on Greenville across the street from Valley.

I remember walking home from school and I'd stop and chat with Mr. T and he would greet me with a big smile. May God Hug His Family.

His services are below:

Clyde Edward Thomas's Memorial Website on Ever Loved

https://everloved.com/life-of…

Pops will definitely be missed. I never met Pops in person but I’ve had great conversations with him on the phone.  I’m originally from Louisiana and I’m told he  had roots in Louisiana. And if you know anybody from the South you know we love to joke, kid and laugh about any and everything! Those were some great conversations. And what was equally enriching was the fact that we were both Laker fans so that put us on common ground.  I will never forget those memories! To my buddy Clayton and his family, I’m very sorry for your loss, however you will always have those infinite memories to fall back on and that will bring happiness, comfort and peace forever. Remember those wonderful times! 

My deepest sympathy and prayers for you and your family.

Ken Norwood 

Extending our deepest condolences to the Thomas family during this very difficult time. Wanda and Clayton, please know that you, your family and loved ones are in our prayers and thoughts. May God’s love bring you strength and peace. 

Joseph & Lisa Edwards