Roderick Calvin Thomas Sr., affectionately known as Rotater, was born on September 14, 1968, in Waveland, MS, to Geraldine McKay and the late John Eugene Lemay. On September 13, 2023, he was called to rest by the Heavenly Angels.

Roderick was a proud graduate of Bay High School, class of 1986. He served his country by joining the Army in 1989, dedicating a year and two months to military service. In the same year, he married Jaja Thomas, and together they welcomed their beloved son, Roderick Calvin Thomas Jr.

He is survived by his son, Roderick Calvin Thomas Jr.; his mother, Geraldine McKay of Bay St. Louis, MS; sisters, Allison Lemay and Theresa McKay of Waveland, MS; brothers, Charles W. Thomas of Bay St. Louis, MS, Eugene Mark Lemay, Adam Lemay of Waveland, MS, Lawrence (Tramenia) Thomas of Jefferson, GA, and Tyrone (Karen) McKay; uncles, Willie James Thomas of Waveland, MS, and Willie Roberts Thomas of Hattiesburg, MS; and his cherished grandchildren, Rylan, Samiah, and Layla. He also leaves behind his long-time friend, Tracy Necaise, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A viewing of the body will be Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. at Baylous Funeral Home, 300 N. Blanks Ave., Picayune, MS 39466.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 22, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. at Biloxi National Cemetery, located at 400 Veterans Avenue, Biloxi, MS 39531.