Wilson David "Squirrel" Thomas, Jr.  a resident of Bogalusa, LA passed away on Monday, November 13, 2023, at the age of 83 surrounded by his family. He was born in Bogalusa, Louisiana on October 29, 1940, to Wilson David Thomas and Hilda Ruby Branch Thomas. He grew up in Bogalusa and that is where he met and married the love of his life, Jo Alyn Perrette on December 4, 1957. They remained steadfast and true to each other for 65 wonderful years.

Squirrel worked hard to support his family. He worked a few jobs before settling in Bogalusa where he began his career at the Gaylord Paper Mill. He worked in various positions around the mill that included production, planning, and recycled fiber. He was promoted to Foreman on the No. 2 & 4 paper machine in 1978 and further promoted to the Assistant Superintendent for the No. 5 & 6 paper machine in 1982. He retired from the paper mill in the early 1990's.

Squirrel was an avid hunter and fisherman and was just as at home in a deer stand, blind or boat as he was on his sofa at home. He was also actively involved in the politics of his hometown. He never passed up an opportunity to stump for those individuals he felt best suited the needs of his community. He was a devoted father and grandfather, and he looked forward to visits from his grandkids and loved to entertain them with exploits from his hunting and fishing trips.  Even in his last few weeks he kept his kids and grandkids enthralled as he told stories from throughout his life.  Squirrel was also a die-hard LSU fan who bled purple and gold. Though he had a tough exterior, Squirrel had a heart of gold and was a man of faith. He loved the Lord and was a follower of Jesus. Squirrel was a long-time member of Superior Avenue Baptist Church. His was a larger-than-life presence that will be sorely missed by those many people who knew and loved him.

David is survived by his wife, Jo Alyn Perrette Thomas; four sons, Wilson David Thomas, III of Bogalusa, LA, Buford Darryl (Mary) Thomas of Bogalusa, LA, Dean Alan (Shannon) Thomas of Covington, GA, and Danyon Shawn Thomas of Covington, LA; his grandchildren, Brooke Rowell, Allie Harris, Dean Thomas, Jr., Molly Thomas, Danyon Thomas, Jr., Beau Thomas, and Asher Thomas; and his great grandchildren, Cole, Carter, and Carlee Rowell; ElaKate Smith; Avery Harris; and Noah Torgerson.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson David Thomas, Sr. and Hilda Ruby Branch Thomas and a great granddaughter, Emery Ann Harris.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 17, 2023, at Superior Avenue Baptist Church from 3:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. and will continue on Saturday, November 18, 2023, from 9:00 A.M. until time for the service at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Clay Norwood officiating the service. Entombment to follow in the Sanctuary of Peace Mausoleum, in Ponemah Cemetery.  Pallbearers will include Eli Rowell, Cole Rowell, Drew Harris, Dean Thomas, Jr., Danyon Thomas, Jr., and Rex Alan Perrette.