NOLAN MOSS THOMAS

Nolan Moss Thomas was born on May 5, 1934, in Lake Charles, Louisiana,
to his late parents, Ezekiel Thomas and Nola Moss Thomas. He was raised
there along with his sisters, Irma Jeane and Ruth, and his brother, Wilbur.
Nolan graduated from Sacred Heart Catholic High School in Lake Charles,
Louisiana in a class of 18 students. Following graduation, he ventured west to
Los Angeles, California. This was the best decision of his life, as it was there
that he met and married the love of his life, Zaddie Deloris Thomas, on January
4, 1957. They welcomed the birth of their daughter, Yolanda Denise, on
December 27, 1961, and their son, Kevin, on September 26, 1965. As their
family grew, they moved from Los Angeles to Cerritos, and later to Anaheim
Hills.
Nolan earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from California State
University, Los Angeles, and later received his master’s degree in public
administration from Pepperdine University. He was a dedicated public servant
who gave 25 years of service to Los Angeles County Probation. He began his
career working in juvenile hall, and throughout his years as a probation officer
he especially preferred working with young people and guiding them toward a
better path.
A devoted Catholic, Nolan was a faithful member of San Antonio in
Anaheim Hills. Although his given name was Nolan, he often introduced
himself simply as Thomas, a reflection of the understated way he moved
through the world.
After retiring from Los Angeles County Probation, Nolan and Zaddie moved
to Danville, California. Afterward, they spent several years in Las Vegas. When
their first grandchild, Austin, was born, they returned to California and made
their home in Placentia. There, they picked up Austin and his brother, Parker,
from school each week. During those special times, both boys learned many
life lessons and shared countless laughs with their grandfather along the way.
The memories we have of Nolan will always be dear to our hearts. We
should not mourn his passing but rejoice that our departed loved one has gone
to a home more beautiful than any we have ever known. He joins his beloved
wife, Zaddie, his parents and siblings. Nolan leaves to cherish his memory;
daughter, Yolanda (Kevin), his son, Kevin (Kathy), and grandsons, Austin and
Parker (Hanna) and his great-granddaughter, Harper. He will be remembered
for his faith, strength, and deep dedication to his family. His life of service and
devotion leaves a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant…Enter into the joy of your Lord.”
-Matthew 25:21

Recitation of the holy Rosary will be on Friday, May 1, 2026, 10am at Queen of Angels Catholic Church, Riverside, California, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11am.

Graveside Service will be at Riverside National Cemetery at 1pm.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Akes Family Funeral Home, Riverside, California

©copyright Akes Family Funeral Homes

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