Duane Julius Thomas

Duane Thomas, the Original #33 - Dallas Cowboys - #47 - Washington Redskins (Now Commanders)

Born on June 21, 1947, transitioned on August 4, 2024.

Duane, a Trailblazer, a Champion, and a true Cowboy in every sense of the word. Duane's Legacy with the Dallas Cowboys is Etched in the Annals of NFL History. A Key player in Super Bowls V and VI, he led the Dallas Cowboys to their first championship in 1971, earning the title of NFL Rookie of the Year. Leading the league in rushing-despite joining the season late in game 5. His performance in Super Bowl VI, where the Cowboys triumphed 34-3 over the Miami Dolphins, remains a historic moment— no touchdowns were allowed, a Super Bowl 1*.

Duane was a pioneer in every sense, helping to define the Cowboys as "America's Team," a title as grand as the hat he wore. The Thomas family thanks Governor Clements for his pardon and expungement, removing the shadow over Duane's name in 1987, for an Erroneous drug charge in 1971.

Duane Thomas was more than just a football player. He was a man of Principle, someone who stood up for what was right, including the Fair Treatment and Compensation of players. His protest for fair pay, paved the way for the generations of players who followed him, Ensuring they received what they deserved for their hard work and dedication to the game.

For 38 years, the privilege of walking this journey with Duane was mine, as his book agent and later his life partner. Together, we shared the joys, challenges, and mysteries of life. Duane had a deep sense of Spirituality-what I affectionately called his "Closet Mysticism." He would chuckle at the label, l'd tease him that, one day he'd come out of that closet. He was a man who saw that we, are the" Divine Art of the 'Pater', the Original Cause of Life, the Original Divine Creator of all Life Everywhere and he lived his life as a testament to that knowing.

Duane's compassion extended far beyond the football field. He visited Troops overseas, children's hospitals, raised funds for the Children's Miracle Network, and contributed more than any single player. He was also a guest coach to many in high schools, Camps, colleges and universities. Duane, a true 'Renaissance' man, Gourmet vegetarian/vegan cook, Master carpenter, Painter (includes fine arts), Mechanic, Landscape Artist, Avocado Farmer, Golfer, Author and Poet. (displayed in the Panhandle Museum). His legacy of development, kindness and giving is something we can all aspire to.

He often said, "Tell my children, friends and my Fans-here in America, in Mexico, and in all the places I've visited in Europe and Africa-and those whom I have not yet met 'You are My Divine Family.

To my brothers and sisters in all Sports the world over, Denzel Washington and those in All fields of endeavor, who are Sharing their Love through their Gifts. "Well Done, Well Done." May your LOVE Ignite the World with Upliftment, Magnificent Achievements and Kindness.

Duane leaves this message: "To My Divine Family, I am here with you. I have not gone anywhere. I am right here, just vibrating at a different rate. Remember that I can do here what I could not do on Earth for you. 'Just ask". Christ and Our whole family of Divine Light is here and we are in Service to all who ask for assistance or help. You are Greatly Loved." "Do this, you will see."

As we move forward, we celebrate Duane's life and legacy through his art collection, "LIFE IS ART." This collection is intended to Inspire and Uplift all who view it. The celebration will begin in Dallas, where Duane was born, with additional events planned in cities across the country, including Los Angeles, San Antonio, Albuquerque, Austin, Washington D.C., Maryland, and Shreveport.

The date of Oct.12-14, 2024 is set for Homecoming weekend at West Texas A&M University, formerly West Texas State University, where Duane was drafted #1, by the Dallas Cowboys in 1970.

Dallas, Texas will be the final stop in the tour.

All media will be alerted for each event or Contact: beis90@aol.com. We are still completing dates.

After the tour, Duane's art will find its home in a dedicated gallery in Sedona, AZ, a place that resonates with the spirit of his work.

We, the Thomas family, invite you all to join us in these Celebrations as we honor the life of Duane Thomas who truly lived 'LIFE IS ART'.

Duane Thomas, our Cowboy, may you Rest in the Power of Divine Creator and may we all continue to carry your Spirit with us, Celebrating

"Life is Art" as you did.

Thank you.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Duane Julius Thomas, please visit our floral store.