Biography: Darrell Houston Thomas, 87, child of God, died unexpectedly Friday, March 19, 2010, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born April 3, 1922 in Lonsdale, Arkansas to the late Robert and Dovie Thomas. He was preceded in death by siblings, Curtis Thomas, Lyda Thomas Allen, Hattie Thomas Templeton, Robert O. Thomas and Robert S. Thomas. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Margaret (Peggy) McNeill Thomas; a sister, Odell Thomas Hardin; daughter, Deborah Ann Thomas Roewe and husband John; sons, Michael Thomas and wife Sandy, Hamilton Thomas and wife Sandy and Patrick Thomas and his wife Dawn; 9 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Darrell, known as “Dink” was a Baptist, a mason, shriner and a proud WWII Coast Guard veteran. For many years he was a much respected home builder and a frequent officer of the Arkansas Home Builders Association. Those close to Dink knew of his avocation for thoroughbred racing. For several decades you would find him in his box at Oaklawn giving free advice to anyone who would listen. He would occasionally splurge on an ice cream cone and maybe a corned beef sandwich, if they were on sale. Darrell’s life was God centered and he relied on God’s guidance. He was a devout Bible student who often shared the lessons he learned and studied. Dink passed away quietly while working on his handicapping for the day’s races. He has finished his race here on earth, and now waits on the rest of us to join him so that he can tell us more stories. A funeral service will be held at Ruebel Funeral Home, 6313 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205 on Wednesday, March 24, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. There is no visitation. Arrangements by Ruebel Funeral Home. www.ruebelfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: Humane Society of Garland County, P.O. Box 1484, Hot Springs, AR 71902 or Billy Graham Ministries, #1 Billy Graham Pkwy., Charlotte, NC 28201.