Tea Otis Thomas was born August 30, 1950 in Grider, Arkansas to Lee Oscar and Flossie Mae Thomas. He grew up in Luxora, Arkansas.

Tea Otis accepted Christ as his Savior at the age of 9 at Gospel Temple Baptist in Luxora, Arkansas under the leadership of Rev. O'Neal. He was very outgoing as a child and excelled in sports participating in basketball, softball, baseball, and football. Tea Otis graduated from Luxora High School in May of 1968.

Tea Otis married Heloise Cooper in November of 1968 and later married Lillie Prince in July of 1983.

Tea Otis decided to move to East Saint Louis in 1965 where he resided until his time of death.

Tea Otis began his career at Mallinkrodt in 1969. While working at Mallinkrodt he created many lasting relationships. He was a member of Mallinkrodt's softball and basketball team in the 80's. He worked in various departments from electrician to maintenance to production on his job. He was an avid voice for his peers as a union representative. He gave his all on his job until his retirement in 2014 at 45 years of service. Tea Otis was an active Mason and Shriner. He was a member of the challengers motorcycle club. He went to school for photography and earned a degree in college.

His biggest accomplishment was as a family man. Tea Otis was a devoted son, brother, father, and grandfather. He will forever be loved and truly missed.

Tea Otis was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, three sisters, Ella, Betty, and Myrtle Thomas and two brothers, Arthur and Danny Thomas.

Tea Otis is survived by two brothers, Birden S. Howard (Gaynelle) of Augusta, Georgia, Kendric Thomas of Luxora, Arkansas, Lillie Lucas (Robert) of Blytheville, Arkansas, Mary Francis Thomas, Ruby Estell and Rosie Davenport of Luxora, Arkansas, and Brittany Thomas of Osceola, Arkansas. Seven children, Anthony Cooper of Springfield, Illinois, Tammy Johnson (Kevin) of FortPolk, Louisiana, Timothy Thomas of East Saint Louis, Illinois, Tara Simmons (Christopher) of Perry, Iowa, Sherri Triplett of East Saint Louis, Illinois, Treavon Triplett of East Saint Louis, Illinois , and Chudney Thomas of Dupo, Illinois. Thirteen grandchildren, three great grandchildren, a longtime friend, Helen Ann Amlette, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.