Leatrice D. Thomas was born on July 29, 1934, in Marvell, Arkansas. She was the first of four
children born to her parents, Onnie Mae Davis and J.B. Davis. While born premature, her strong
faith grew roots and sustained her throughout her entire life. She peacefully departed this life on
Thursday, March 12, at 11:05 p.m., at home surrounded by her loving family. She was preceded
in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Theo Walter Thomas, Sr. and her sister Odessa.
Homecoming Queen Leatrice graduated from Eliza Miller High School in 1953 and continued
her education at Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio. While there, she formed lifelong
friendships with fellow education majors Helen Gray and Alice Tiggett—bonds that endured for
more than 70 years. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education on June 9, 1957, and soon
after moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where she dedicated over 50 years to teaching in the Cleveland
Metropolitan School District.
After relocating to Cleveland, Leatrice joined Temple Church. Not long after, she met the love of
her life on a blind date. They quickly fell in love and were married on October 4, 1960. Their
union was blessed with two children, Theo Jr. and Chante, of whom she was immensely proud.
Leatrice later joined her husband at Second Metropolitan Baptist Church, where she remained a
faithful and active member for many years. Among her many contributions, she found her
greatest joy in serving as a Sunday School teacher, where she inspired countless young people to
deepen their relationship with Christ.
As an educator, Leatrice extended learning far beyond the classroom. She organized affordable
bus tours, allowing students and their families to travel and experience new places across the
United States. Her favorite spring break itineraries included Atlanta, Orlando, and Tennessee,
with frequent visits to Disney World. She also led trips to Washington, D.C., for the Cherry
Blossom Festival, where visits with the Honorable Louis Stokes were a highlight. One of her
most memorable journeys was the “Wild West Tour,” a 14-day adventure through Nevada,
Wyoming, Missouri, Oklahoma, and California. In addition to these excursions, she enjoyed
traveling with her own children, taking family cruises, visiting Hawaii, and even embarking on a
solo trip to Spain. Leatrice had a deep desire to see the world—and she did.
In her leisure time, Leatrice found joy in gardening. Her home was filled with vibrant indoor and
outdoor plants, including a plum tree she lovingly nurtured for many years. She often said that
talking and singing to her plants was her secret to helping them thrive.
Leatrice loved her six grandchildren unconditionally. She cherished traveling with them,
celebrating their birthdays, and witnessing many of their milestones, including high school and
college graduations.