Darell “Pedro” Thomas, was born and raised in St. Louis, the beloved son of Verdie Thomas, Sr. and Helen Henderson Thomas. He was educated in the St. Public Schools and completed his Associate’s degree in Electronics at South Tech. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Verdie Jr, Patricia, Irving and Jewel. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and servant of God whose life reflected quiet strength, integrity, and unwavering faith.

Known as a true “jack of all trades, Darell had a gift for fixing anything placed before him. He began his career repairing electronics and televisions, before establishing a long respected career in clinical engineering, specializing in biomedical equipment. His skill, precision, and dedication made a lasting impact among his colleagues at General Electric and BJC Health Systems for over 40 years. A soft-spoken perfectionist, he carried a strong yet gentle presence-rational, fair, and deeply thoughtful. Whether tending to his meticulously maintained backyard, solving a sudoku puzzle, or enjoying live jazz music, he found joy in doing simple things well and would go out of his way for anyone who needed help.

A faithful member of Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, Darell served as Co-Chairman of the Deacon Board for many years and was a dedicated Vocal Choir and Male Chorus member, often traveling to share his rich tenor voice. His service extended far beyond the titles-shying away from the spotlight he led by example. Darell was a trusted leader, a teacher to many deacons, and the go-to maintenance man who lovingly cared for the house of God. He adopted and mentored countless children within the church and community, leaving a legacy of guidance, support, and faith that will continue for generations.

Darell had a deep love for fishing spending hours on the banks” but his greatest Love was for his family. He supported his children and grandchildren in all their pursuits, always present and engaged. Whether listening to poetry or piano, starring in short films, going to basketball games, or getting his haircut and colored, he was always ready to celebrate and spend time. Darell also welcomed their friends, cherished Saturday breakfasts. His life was a testament to service, humility, and consistency. His most recent and cherished saying, “God will do, captured the faith that anchored his life.

He was united in love and marriage for 45 years to his devoted wife, Sanette Thomas, celebrating their anniversary each January 17th. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Shanae Lobster, Tracie Thomas, and Kristina Thomas; his grandson, Shane Thomas Lobster; and his granddaughter, Trenise Thomas-James, two god-sons Deluan Green and Travis Garner, one god-daughter Candace Runions. He also leaves behind a great host or nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and extended family. Most importantly, his legacy lives on in the many children he mentored, the deacons he trained, and the countless lives he touched through his faithful service at Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church.

Darell “Pedro Thomas will be deeply missed, but his life, his work, and his faith will continue to speak for him.