Thomas Leon Ladell, age 98, of Henderson, Nevada, passed away on Saturday, May 1, 2021. He was born December 22, 1922 in Paris, Texas to his parents Homer Ladell and Cordia (Fuller) Ladell. Thomas was raised in Texas with his brothers Zenith and Luke, and graduated from high school. Thomas would soon meet the love of his life Erma G. Bills and the two were married on January 25, 1943 at a private civil wedding in Texas.
Thomas would enlist in the U.S. Army on August 4, 1944. He was deployed to Germany where he served honorably during WWII. Through his hard work and dedication; Thomas would achieve the rank of Tech 5 Sergeant; and receive the Europe Africa Middle East "EAME" theater campaign Ribbon, Army of Occupation Ribbon, Victory Ribbon, and two overseas bars. Thomas was honorably discharged from active duty on July 5, 1949.
Following his service in the U.S. Army; Thomas would continue to serve his country working for the US Government. His mechanical ability provided the opportunity for him to obtain work as a missile mechanic. Thomas worked at the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Depot for over 35 years; retiring in 1979. In retirement, the family relocated to Nevada in 1981.
Thomas was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great grandfather; whom devoted his life to his family, his faith and serving his community. While he enjoyed spending time with his family, taking vacations to visit Spain, wood working, and watching Dodgers Baseball and football; Thomas, will be remembered most for his giving and generous heart. Shortly after his retirement and relocation to Nevada, Thomas was extremely active with feeding the homeless. From 1982 to 2017 he made it a daily mission to feed the homeless within his community.
All who knew him would agree that Thomas lived his life in service of others. He had a strong work ethic, was giving and generous in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means to help others. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Thomas did his best to ensure that his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched was given the chance to become a better person. He will truly be missed.
Thomas was preceded in death by his loving life, Erma Ladell; father, Homer Ladell; mother, Cordia (Fuller) Ladell; and brothers: Zenith and Luke Ladell. He is survived by his children: Brenda T. Cobb (Oliver), Margie Miles (Lonzie) and Michael Ladell (Gwen); 8 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great grandchildren.
A visitation for Thomas will be held Thursday, May 20, 2021 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Funeral services will begin at 10:00 AM, both at at Palm Boulder Highway Mortuary, 800 South Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV 89015. Thomas will be laid to rest with military honors at 11:00 AM at Palm Boulder Highway Cemetery, 800 South Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV 89015.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmboulderhighway.com for the Ladell family.
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