Tyris Noel Thomas was born on November 16, 1956, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. to the late Betty Thomas and James Brown. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by three sister, Tawanda Thomas, Kay Frances Barber and Latisha Gray.

He later moved to Newark New Jersey for several years and returned back home in 1999. Tyris leaves to cherish his memory, daughters Felicia, Dana, and Nicole, two sons, Derek and Tyris Jr., eleven grandchildren, and one great grand. Two sisters, Betty Jean and Jovita (Vita Ball) and one brother Authur (Catherine) a devoted friend Carolyn Wilson and Annie Greenspring. And a host of niece, nephews and relatives. A public viewing will be held Thursday February 16, 2023, from 1pm until 5pm at Douthit's. Funeral services will be held Friday February 17, 2023, at 12pm from Douthit's. The family will receive friends at 11:30am. Arrangements are in the care of Douthit Funeral Services.