Edward Lenn Thomas

Edward Lenn Thomas, Big Country, was born on May 18, 1969 in Davenport, Iowa to Alonza D. Thomas and Joyce Marie Thomas. He graduated from North High School in 1987 and was voted Homecoming King his senior year. He attended Tennessee State University before moving to Detroit, Michigan where he would become a member of the Detroit Police Department in 1997 and start his family in 1998.   Madison Marie Thomas into the world on March 21, 2000. 

Edward took his responsibilities as a police officer very seriously.  He graduated from the academy earning the highest scholastic score and honor of reciting the Code of Ethics at his graduation on November 7, 1997.  He started his career as an officer at the City’s 6th precinct.   While on the job, Edward participated as a member of the department’s Tug of War team for several years.  He also participated in numerous Pit Master BBQ contests at the 6th winning top honors and the Grill Master title.  Edward enjoyed working with and mentoring the youth participants of the Police Explorers.  Ultimately, he transferred to work on the Green Light Project where he learned a new way to serve and protect the citizens and businesses in the City of Detroit.        

Edward’s talent as an artist was discovered when he was a child.  He studied art in college and became an accomplished artist utilizing his skills as a hobby.  In addition to being a Pit and Grill Master, he also enjoyed cooking.  Oftentimes, Edward would challenge himself to create better versions of dishes he discovered in various restaurants.  He loved to sing and enjoyed karaoke.   A true Dog Dad, Edward loved spending time with Kipper and Atticus, his four-legged family. Most of all, Edward loved to laugh and make others laugh.  Everyone who has met him can recall a time when he made them laugh; telling a story, doing an impression or playing the dozens. 

Edward made his transition on Tuesday, December 17, 2019 in Wayne, Michigan at the age of 50.  To celebrate his life he leaves his daughter, Madison, his father, Alonza D. Thomas and siblings; Derek, Stanley, Bradley, Erwin, Mary and Kari Thomas.   He is preceded in death by his mother, Joyce Thomas.

Visitation: Thursday January 2, 2020 at Mount Olive Church of God in Christ 1020 North Ripley, Davenport, Iowa 4pm to 7pm.

Service: Friday, January 3, 2020 at Mount Olive Church of God in Christ at 11 am.  Additional visitation will be at 10:00 am until service time.

Online condolences may be left for the family at orrsmortuary@gmail.com

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