Thomas Lee Ely, 79, of De Leon, passed away Monday, May 18, 2015, in Temple, Texas. He was born October 14, 1935, in Gorman, Texas, to James Thomas Ely and Emma Estelle Fields.

Thomas proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean and Vietnam War eras. He was dedicated and determined in his service to our country. He was a retired truck driver, often recognized by the radio handle "Frog". He was married to Doris Ely for over forty years and had lived in De Leon for most of his life. Thomas enjoyed collecting items, drawing cartoons, and spending time with his family. He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, friend and neighbor. He was loved by all who knew him and will be missed beyond measure.

He is survived by his wife, Doris Ely; children, Deborah Lucas, Carol Desnoyers and husband, Michael, Teresa Castillo and husband, Albert, Janet Olvera and husband, John, and Michael Ely and wife, Sherry; grandchildren, Damen Lucas, Derrick Lucas, Lester Norgaard, Leannette Castillo, Jasper Castillo, Amanda Castillo, Ashley Olvera, Bryant Olvera, Shea Browning, and Britton Johnson; great-grandchildren, Caterina Lucas, Natalie Lucas, Kayla Lucas, Eden Castillo and Cyler Olvera; siblings, Estelle Marshall and husband, Bill, Barbara Bradford and husband, Buck, and L.D. Ely and wife, Sue; numerous nieces and nephews; and other extended family.

Thomas was preceded in death by his daughter, Linda Diane Ely; and his parents, J.T. and Emma Ely.

Funeral services will be held Friday, May 22, 2015, at 1:00 p.m. at Nowlin Anders Funeral Home with Minister Jason Wilder officiating. Graveside services will follow in Beth Haven Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until service time Friday at the funeral home.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA of Texas at 2400 Lone Star Drive, Dallas, Texas 75212, or to Leukemia Texas at 6060 North Central Expressway, Suite #416, Dallas Texas, 75206, in memory of Thomas.