Frankie Dee Thomas, age 78, of Hugoton, KS, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, at Stevens County Hospital in Hugoton, KS, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born August 20, 1947, in Weaubleau, MO, the son of James Frank and Flora Jeanne (Cauthan) Thomas.
As a young child, Frankie moved to Hugoton when his father began working in the oil and gas industry. Throughout his life, he called many places home — including Atwood, Ulysses, Hickok, and Attica — before eventually settling back in Hugoton, where his roots and heart remained.
Frankie proudly served his country in the United States Army, completing 18 months of service in Vietnam as part of the 173rd Airborne Brigade. He was later stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, where he continued to exemplify courage, loyalty, and commitment. After his military service, Frankie built a respected career as an electrician and later founded his own business, FDT Electric. His tireless work ethic and dedication to his craft never wavered — Frankie never officially retired, he continued working right up until the end of his life.
On September 1, 1967, Frankie married the love of his life, Charlotte Reardon, and together they built a beautiful life, raising three children and creating countless memories. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the Southwest Baptist College and also became an Ordained Minister. Frankie officiated many weddings and funerals, often in backyards and community spaces, always bringing warmth and sincerity to every ceremony.
Frankie’s passion for sports was evident in everything he did. He loved coaching, refereeing, and cheering on local teams. He also enjoyed golfing and spending cherished time with his grandchildren, who he loved dearly.
A dedicated community member, Frankie served on the Hugoton City Council and was an active member of Pheasant Heaven Charities, where he contributed his time and energy to improving the community he loved so dearly. Frankie will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his unwavering faith, his laughter, and his deep love for family, friends, and the Hugoton community. His legacy will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.
Frankie is survived by his wife, Charlotte; his children, Tabitha (Eric) Rich of Kansas City, MO, Aaron (Joy) Thomas of Hays, KS, Hillary (Ryan) Bleiker of Jayton, TX; grandkids, Erica Rich, Cameron (Madisyn) Thomas, Jada Thomas, Dayton Bleiker, Easton Bleiker; sisters, Beverly (Robert) Nuckolls, Tava (Wayne) Davis; brother, James (Marla) Thomas.
Frankie is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Kay Lariviere.
Graveside service and Inurnment will be at 2:00 PM on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Hugoton Cemetery in Hugoton, Kansas, with Pastor Obed Aying officiating. Military rites will be conducted by Ft. Riley Funeral Honor Guard and Southwest Kansas Funeral Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be given to the Pheasant Heaven Charities in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 920 E. 11th St. Hugoton, KS 67951. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.