Longtime Brownwood Resident Gerald Lee Thomas Dies at 70

Thomas, a U.S. Army veteran and rancher, is survived by his children and grandchildren.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:32am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Gerald Lee Thomas, a 70-year-old longtime resident of Brownwood, Texas, passed away on March 12, 2026. Thomas served in the U.S. Army from 1975-1977 and later found joy in ranching, especially raising cows and horses. He is survived by his daughter, son, three grandchildren, siblings, and other family members.

Why it matters

Thomas' passing marks the loss of a respected member of the Brownwood community, where he lived for decades and was known for his military service and love of ranching. His family and friends will gather to honor his life and legacy.

The details

Gerald Lee Thomas was born on September 10, 1955 in Brownwood to Hillman and Dorothy Thomas. He married Ginger Minkley on January 3, 1978, and they had two children together. In addition to his military service, Thomas found joy in fishing and ranching, especially caring for cows and horses.

  • Gerald Lee Thomas passed away on March 12, 2026.
  • Visitation will be held from 6-8 pm on Tuesday, March 17 at Heartland Funeral Home in Early.
  • Funeral services will be at 2 pm on Wednesday, March 18 at the Heartland Funeral Home Early Chapel, with interment to follow at Pleasant Valley Cemetery.

The players

Gerald Lee Thomas

A 70-year-old longtime resident of Brownwood, Texas who served in the U.S. Army from 1975-1977 and later found joy in ranching, especially raising cows and horses.

Ginger Minkley

Gerald Lee Thomas' wife of 48 years, with whom he had two children.

Karen Thomas

Gerald Lee Thomas' daughter who resides in Brownwood.

William Thomas

Gerald Lee Thomas' son who resides in Brownwood.

Happy Horse Haven Rescue

A rescue organization in Goldthwaite, Texas that the Thomas family has asked for donations to be made to in lieu of flowers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Gerald Lee Thomas' passing marks the loss of a respected member of the Brownwood community, where he lived for decades and was known for his military service and love of ranching. His family and friends will gather to honor his life and legacy, and the community will remember him as a dedicated family man and outdoorsman.