Dexter Clay Thomas

In Loving Memory of Dexter Clay Thomas

Dexter Clay Thomas passed peacefully on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, after a long and courageous battle with lung disease. Though his illness was long, his spirit remained strong, and his love for his family never wavered.

Dexter was born on July 9, 1964, in Duncan, Oklahoma, to Clay and Clydene Thomas. From an early age, he was known for his big heart, his easy smile, and the way he could make others feel at home in his presence.

He leaves behind his loving wife and best friend, Teresa; his father, Clay Thomas, and wife Phyllis; and his sisters, each of whom held a special place in his heart: Tonya and her husband, Rocky—who was also Dexter’s lifelong friend—and their children, Shannon, Cheyene, and Shane; Brandi and her husband, Todd, and their children, Winston and Oliver; and Charity and her husband, Brian, and their children, Hope and Creed.

Dexter also leaves behind his five stepsons, whom he loved as his own: Jeff and wife Holly; Buddy; Jarrod; Brian and wife Brittany; and Ethan and wife Jamie. He shared a particularly special bond with his daughter-in-law, Cortney, who held a unique and cherished place in his life.

Dexter and Teresa were blessed with 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, each one a source of joy, pride, and purpose. He was also lovingly known as uncle to 7 nieces and nephews and 12 great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom will remember his laughter, his teasing, and his gentle encouragement.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Bradley Clay; his devoted mother, Clydene; and his daughter-in-law, Nikki. The thought of their reunion brings comfort to those who mourn his passing.

Dexter had a smile and personality that could light up a room the moment he walked in. He had a gift for making everyone feel important, seen, and valued. Whether you were family, friend, or someone he had just met, he met you with kindness, warmth, and genuine interest.

He was deeply devoted to his family and loved them with his whole heart; being a husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, son, brother, and friend was not just a role to him—it was his greatest honor.

A man of strong and abiding faith in God, Dexter drew strength and comfort from that faith throughout his life and especially during his long illness. He faced each day with determination, courage, and an unshakable trust in the Lord. He lived with quiet strength and independence, always choosing to live—and ultimately to pass—on his own terms, with dignity and grace.

Dexter spent his adult life working in the pool and spa industry, a career he truly enjoyed and took pride in. He was known for his hard work, reliability, and the care he poured into everything he did. Outside of work, his happiest moments were often found on the farm, tending to his cattle, enjoying the peace of the land, and slipping away to fish whenever he had the chance. These simple pleasures reflected who he was at his core—a man who loved God’s creation, valued honest work, and appreciated the quiet beauty of everyday life.

Dexter will be remembered for his kind heart, his generous spirit, and the love he so freely shared with family and friends. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the laughter he created, and the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply and lovingly missed by all who knew him, but the imprint of his life and love will remain in their hearts forever.

Funeral arrangements are being lovingly planned by Hart-Wyatt Funeral Home. Dexter will be laid to rest during a private family gathering.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Dexter’s honor to the American Transplant Foundation. This organization assists transplant recipients and their families with financial, educational, and support services throughout the transplant process.

The family is currently awaiting the donation link and will share updated information as soon as it becomes available.