Shirley Louise (Toms) Thomas of Saline passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at the age of 86.    A devoted and compassionate caregiver, Shirley spent her life caring for others—whether through the many children she nurtured in her daycare or later as a licensed practical nurse, a calling she pursued at the age of 62 and faithfully served for two decades. She found her greatest joy in time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and she remained active in her church as a dedicated secretary. In her quieter moments, Shirley enjoyed working puzzles and reading, simple pleasures that reflected her gentle and thoughtful spirit.

Shirley is survived by her children, Barry Thomas and wife Tammy of Saline, LA, Pam Blackstock of Quitman, LA, Paul Thomas and wife Lisa of Saline, LA, and Jill Adkins of Saline, LA; grandchildren, Jason Thomas and wife Sandy, Samantha Aldy and husband Corey, Mitchell Robinson and wife Kaylee, Tyler Nolte, Kelli Thrower and husband Adam, Taylor Sloan and husband Joe, Trey Thomas and wife Kaitlyn, Caleb Nolte, Kassadi Adkins, Sydney Thomas; 11 great grandchildren; sisters, Jean Bryant, Martha Duck, Sue Blalock, Wilma Lewter; brother, Millard "Butch" Toms; and sisters-in-law, Glenda Williams, Jenine Thomas and Ann Toms.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wayne Thomas; father, MH Toms, Sr.; mother, Mildred (Sample) Toms; brothers, MH Toms, Jr., Bentley Toms, Don Toms, Randal Toms.

Friends may visit with the family on Friday, April 10, 2026 at Carolina Baptist Church in Saline from 10:30 AM until 12:00 PM.

The funeral service will begin at 12:00 PM with Bro. Ken Roberts and Bro. Spud Rodrigues officiating. Burial will follow in Carolina Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Jason Thomas, Mitchell Robinson, Tyler Nolte, Caleb Nolte, Trey Thomas, Corey Aldy and Adam Thrower.