Arthur O'Neal Thomas

Arthur O'Neal Thomas (AO), 81, left this earth on July 22, 2026.

AO was born on November 5, 1944.

AO was a devoted Christian and faithful trustee of Truth Fellowship Church. He was a proud member of Teamsters Local 878 and retired from Roadway Express in 2003 after 29 years of dedicated service.

AO loved spending time outdoors hunting and fishing with his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed coaching his boys in Little League and Pony League baseball, as well as Pee Wee football. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren play baseball, softball, basketball, and participate in 4-H activities.

He had a deep love for Southern Gospel music and enjoyed singing and traveling to hear many gospel quartets. AO treasured family trips to Yosemite, Alaska, Canada, Sanibel Island, and Disney World in Florida. He also enjoyed attending gospel singings in Branson and performances at Sight & Sound Theatre. Friday nights were often spent with his cherished domino group, gathering at different homes to enjoy fellowship and friendly competition. He was always happy to support his wife and enjoyed helping with the Sweet Home Extension Club.

AO leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 62 years, Sue (Foster) Thomas; his sons, Todd (Robin) Thomas and Brad (Rebecca) Thomas; five grandchildren, Drew (Danielle) Thomas, Luke (Cayla) Thomas, Brooke Thomas, Savannah (David) Larson, and Jordan (Jacob) Hurbanek; nine great-grandchildren, Braxton Moffett, Adison, Chloe, Eden, Harper, Paige, and Maysen Thomas, Aubrey Smith, and Dallas Larson; and his cousins, Pat Bass and Suzie Newton.

Arthur, affectionately known as "AO," will be remembered for his unwavering Christian faith, his love of God, his generous heart toward those in need, and his deep devotion to his family. His legacy of kindness, service, and love will continue to live on through his family and the many lives he touched in his 81 years here on earth.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Dorothy (Shank) Thomas, and his infant daughter, Michelle Suzette Thomas.

Pallbearers: Doyle Thompson, Paul Thompson, Melton Stoops, Mike Pearson, Ronald Metheny, Keith Shelton

Honorary Pallbearers: Fred Bailey, Arvil Cox, Grady Hopf, Wayne McGowan, James Talley, George Yarberry

Funeral Arrangements: Smith Family Funeral Home, North Little Rock. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 31, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. 

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 1, at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by burial at Ivy Chapel Cemetery.

 Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, AR 72114. 501-758-1170.