Tommie Theus

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Tommie L. Theus Sr., age 82, of Joplin, MO went to be with the Lord on April 10th, 2025. He was born in Joplin to his parents Levert and Sallie (Henson) Theus on February 26th, 1943 and he attended Joplin High School.

Mr. Theus was a talented football and basketball player. He played drums and saxophone in his cousin’s band. He was a part of the integration movement. He went to Lincoln school, East Jr High, and Joplin Senior High School. He was also a member of Unit Baptist Church. He was the captain of his basketball team and left school in the 12th grade to pursue a career with the Harlem Clowns in California. He was later a diesel mechanic in Kansas City, MO, and he loved working and volunteering at Soul’s Harbor. He loved music and was learning to play bass guitar in his later years.

He is preceded by his parents and two brothers, Alonzo Jackson and James L. Theus.

Tommie is survived by one sister, Audrey Wright; one son, Tommie Theus Jr; one daughter, Marilyn “Ester” Theus; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Tommie will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services will be held at 11:00am, Friday, April 18th at Mason-Woodard Mortuary, 3701 E 7th, Joplin, MO with a visitation from 10:00-11:00am prior to the service. Serving as pallbearers are Dennis Dilts, Jeremiah Skiles, Gary Hedges, Tommy Thompson, Brad Cox, and Tommie Theus Jr. Honorary pallbearers are J.D. Love, Otis Creighton, Bobby England, Alonzo Jacksons Jr., Perro Henson Jr., Mark Anderson Jr., and Kristopher Wilson.

Burial will be held at Parkway Cemetery following the service.

Special Thanks to Freeman Hospital, Freeman Cancer Center, Dr Black & Staff, Dr Carlson & Staff, Joplin Gardens, Soul Harbor, Joplin Police Dept & Emergency Services, Dennis Dilts and Gary Hedges.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory – Joplin, MO.