Elmer Rex Thomas slipped safely into the arms of the Lord in the afternoon of July 9, 2014 after a courageous battle with Valley Fever. Rex was born in Green Co., Arkansas in 1936, and his family moved to California in 1952. He worked first as a truck driver and then a mechanic. His passion was wood working. Rex was a life-long Christian and a member of Valley Baptist Church. Rex was preceded in death by his parents, Red and Viola Thomas, first wife Maxine Thomas, son Jeffrey Thomas, grandson, Casey Wright, and five brothers. He is survived by his wife, Merita Sanders Thomas, daughters; Pam Archibald (Randy), Sherry Wright (Rob), sister, Ann Scruggs, 9 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, 3 stepsons; Joey Sanders (Nedra), Randy Sanders (Teresa), Derek Sanders (Shandra) and their extended families. A special thanks to Dr. Byron Mui and the staff of Memorial Hospital. Services are scheduled for 11am Tuesday, July 15 at Valley Baptist Church, with the burial following at the Shafter Cemetery.