Gregory Ray “Duck” Thomason passed away shortly after midnight on October 10, 2026 surrounded by his sister and nephew.A beloved brother, son, uncle, friend, bandmate and extraordinary musician, Greg brought an unmatched rhythm, boundless energy, and infectious laughter to everyone he knew.
During the vibrant music scene of the 80’s, Greg found his true calling behind the drum kit. He was an exceptionally talented drummer whose precision and passion drove the heartbeat of a band, “Justin Tyme” and captured hearts of everyone who heard him play. Music was his language and the stage was where his spirit truly shined.
He entered contests for drumming and won four straight years as West Tennessee Best Drummer.
Off the stage, Greg was unforgettable. He was the definition of an eternal optimist, always happy, upbeat and true glass half full kind of guy. No matter the circumstances, he had a rare gift for seeing the bright side of life. He was also a legendary practical joker, whom he inherited from his Dad, always ready with a witty prank or clever setup to keep his friends smiling and on their toes.
He loved peopleand always wanted to be surrounded by them. He loved bowling and bowled in several leagues. He dearly loved to hunt duck and turkey, nicknamed “Duck” Thomason by all who knew him. He entered a turkey call contest and won in West Tennessee and WBBJ put him on TV for it.
He loved his old high school, South Side, and supported all sports there. He would be seen driving his wheelchair there just to see them play.
He loved Tennessee Vols football and was the West Tennessee President of the Vols Club. He bled orange through and though. He supported all aspects of football and the Lady Vols. He also chartered busses to take anyone to see the Vols play with accommodations if needed. He took people to see races in Talladega as well.
One of his favorite days was always the Tennessee vs. Alabama football game. He would throw a huge party at his home, cook chili, have TV’s everywhere for all who wanted to come and watch the game. It was his heartbeat.
Most of all, he loved the Lord and was ready to go him. He missed “Pop” too.
In 2017 and 2020, Greg faced an immense attach and battle, when he was struck down with Osteomyelitis. Despite enduring five plus years of excruciating pain and huge limitations, he fought with a grace, courage, and dignity that left all who loved him in awe. Though his physical suffering has finally ended, his remarkable strength remains an inspiration to us all.
He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Thomason; and his grandparents, Garland and Maude Perry and Woodrow and Mary Thomason.
He is survived by his mother, Pat Thomason; his sister, Susan Thomason Simmons (Randy); and nephews, Luke Thomason Legate and Adam Wesley Legate.
Friends and family are cordially invited to honor his memory at his celebration of life and graveside.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the South Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons. Following the visitation, an escorted procession will travel to Liberty Grove Cemetery for a graveside service.
