Wendell Carter Thomas

Born on May 20, 1943, in Ellisville, Mississippi, Wendell was a devoted alumnus of Kentucky State University and later attended Webster College. He had a fulfilling career, dedicating over thirty years to Louisville Gas and Electric.

Wendell was known for his passion for his alma mater, his prowess in competition barbecue, and his love for mentoring. He balanced his professional life with diverse hobbies, including fishing, cooking, and bird watching, each of which he approached with enthusiasm and dedication.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ernestine Thomas, and son, Calvin.

Wendell's legacy continues through his daughter, April Thomas, and son, Oliver Thomas, who will miss him dearly. Wendell leaves behind three grandchildren. Wendell C. Thomas love for both his family and friends will forever be etched in the minds and hearts of all who knew him well.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 18, 2024, 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

also Friday, July 19 2024, Noon until 2:00 p.m.

The funeral service will take place on Friday, July 19, 2024, 2:00 p.m. at Arch L Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Kentucky.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Kentucky State Alumni Association for a scholarship fund, honoring Wendell's love for his alma mater and his commitment to education.

KSU National Alumni Association

Permanent Alumni Fund

KSU Foundation, Inc.

P.O. Box 4210

Frankfort, KY 40604

kysufoundation.org

HIS LIFE STORY

Wendell Carter Thomas was born May 20, 1943 to the late Sicil Carter in Ellisville, Mississippi transitioned into Eternal Life on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at Nortons Hospital, Louisville, Kentucky. He married the love of his life, the late Ernestine Patterson. Their union produced 3 children, April, Oliver and Calvin.

Wendell was adopted by his loving maternal aunt and uncle, Mattie (Mama) and Oliver (Daddy) Thomas in Ellisville, Mississippi. As a child he worked with Daddy in the cotton field. With Mama and an aunt they, traveled throughout the county in the Church of God as a singer.

His mother moved him to Chicago, Illinois where he began his high school days at Hirsch High School. He joined the wrestling team and won several awards and played football. Wendell worked in his uncle’s hat shop cleaning hats. He also learned sewing and made several shirts. While at Hirsch, the father of Senator Reginald Thomas encouraged him to go to Kentucky State College to play football. He was awarded a football scholarship for his four years at KSC. At KSC he earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education. He later earned his master’s degree at Webster University. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Kentucky State University. He also served as president of the KSU K-Club. Under his leadership the Hall of Fame wall was erected in Exum Center with plaques of honorees. He also initiated the awarding of Kelly Green monogramed jackets.

After the assassination of Martin Luther King, Wendell was hired at LG& E (Louisville, KY) where he was mentored by the company president to not only perform as an administrator but to hire and mentor African Americans for the company retiring after 30 years in 1998.