Laura Joellen Martin-Thomas

Laura Joellen Martin Thomas, 46 of Nacogdoches, Texas, passed away December 16, 2019 after a brief illness surrounded by family at her side. Laura was born in Louisville, KY on January 10, 1973 and spent her childhood living in Frankfort, Kentucky. There Laura attended Capital Day School, Sayre School and graduated from Western Hills High School. Laura later graduated from Clemson University and received a Bachelor of Science in Forest Resource Management.

Laura was married to Jason Thomas on October 10, 2004. The ceremony took place in Galveston, Texas onboard the Tall Ship Elissa.

Laura began her career as a lobbyist for the timber industry and later became a Forester for International Paper Company. It was there that she met Jason while they were working together in Mississippi on a land sale project for IP. Jason soon persuaded her to join him in the oil and gas industry where Laura transferred her skills doing GIS mapping. In 2007 Laura and Jason formed Thomas Interests, Inc to better serve their clients.

Laura was a member of Houston Yacht Club, Texas Mariners Cruising Association, and the Wally Byam Caravan Club. She had a passion for sailing, camping, cooking, and her dogs. Laura was particularly fond of Golden Retrievers.

She is survived by her husband Jason Thomas of Nacogdoches, TX, parents Dr. and Mrs. Edward K. Martin Jr. of Kingwood, TX, sister Rebecca Reiss of Kingwood, TX, nieces Hadleigh Reiss and Celeste Reiss of Kingwood, TX and in-laws Dr. & Mrs. Ernest L. Thomas of Brandon, MS.

A celebration of life and memorial service will take place at 3:30 P.M. on January 12, 2020 at Houston Yacht Club in Shoreacres, Texas.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests that you consider a donation to Golden Beginnings Golden Retriever Rescue, Sailing Angels or Nac Foster Rescue.