A longtime USD 445 coach, educator and school administrator has passed away.

 

Harold Thomas passed away on September 5, 2026, at the age of 94. Thomas impacted many in the Coffeyville community through his 36 years with USD 445. Throughout his career, he coached 25 All-SEK athletes, seven All-State athletes and one High School All-American.

 

Thomas played basketball at Field Kindley High School and earned All-SEK honors and served as co-captain in 1950. He continued his basketball career at Coffeyville Community College, where he was a two-year starter and the team’s leading scorer during his sophomore season. His accomplishments earned him All-State and All-Kansas honors, and he served as co-captain in 1952.

 

Thomas competed against the Phillips 66 Oilers, the 1950 National Industrial Basketball League champions; the McPherson Globe Refiners All-Stars; the Marques Haynes All-Stars and Harlem Magicians; and Kansas City’s Chapel Touring All-Star Basketball Team.

 

Thomas will long be remembered for his involvement in the Interstate Basketball Classic, which was named in his honor.

 

Harold Thomas' full obituary can be viewed here.