Donnie M. Thomas, 64, Michigan City departed this life on earth Thursday, May 11, 2017, at his residence.

A celebration of his life will be Saturday, May 20, 2017, viewing 10 a.m. and funeral 11 a.m. at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Jacarra Williams, officiating, burial to follow in Swan Lake Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Repast will be at the Michigan City High School. Visitation will be 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, May 19, 2017, at Coleman & Hick Chapel.

Donnie was born March 12, 1953, in Michigan City, Indiana, to the late Tommy Thomas Sr. and Sarah Nell Horton-Griffin. On June 28, 1986, in Michigan City, Indiana, he married his best friend, Peggy Wright and to this union two children were born. Mr. Thomas’ impressive physical stature led to great success as an athlete at Easton Senior High School. Graduating in 1972, Thomas starred for the football, basketball and baseball teams before going on to have great success as a linebacker at Indiana University where he received his bachelor’s degree. From there, he was drafted in the 11th round of the 1976 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. After pro football, Donnie returned home to Michigan City, taught school and coached for 34 years.

Donnie accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at a young age. He was a member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church. He enjoyed fishing, cooking, sports and coaching.

Donnie is survived by his wife of 30 years, Peggy W. Thomas of Michigan City; son, Quinten J. Thomas and daughter, Kristen L. Thomas both of Michigan City; brothers, Barry M. (Wanda) Thomas of Atlanta, Georgia, Tommy (Jenny) Thomas Jr. and Brian Scott (Jennifa) Thomas both of Michigan City; sisters, Leslie Thomas of Indianapolis, Indiana and Carolyn D. Stephens of Michigan City; special cousin, Carla Dabney-Mock of Michigan City; a host of relatives, teachers, coaches and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and stepmother, Hazel A. Thomas; brother, Gregory M. Stephens; grandparents, Sylvester and Tressie Armstrong and Robert and Virginia Thomas. He will be greatly missed by those that knew him. He was best described as an athlete, a teacher, a coach — but most of all, a great person.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Unity Foundation for the Donnie M. Thomas Scholarship PO Box 527, Michigan City, Indiana 46360 .The portal for electronic donations can be found at www.unity@uflc.net.