Celebrating the life of William Otis “Trey” Thomas, III, MD, FACS

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of our dear friend, colleague and beloved physician, William O. “Trey” Thomas, III, MD, FACS. 

Dr. Thomas practiced at Hattiesburg Clinic Plastic Surgery for over 20 years and will be remembered for his caring and compassionate nature, sense of humor and as a distinctively skilled plastic surgeon. We are grateful and honored to have had Dr. Thomas as a part of Hattiesburg Clinic’s team of physicians. He will be deeply missed.

Thomas received a Bachelor of Science from Millsaps College in Jackson, Miss., and a medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine also in Jackson. He completed a general surgery internship and residency at the University of South Alabama Medical Center in Mobile, Ala., where he met his wife, Catherine. The two later relocated to New Orleans, where he completed and a plastic and reconstructive residency and fellowship at Tulane University Medical Center. His special practice interests included hand surgery, skin cancer, breast surgery, and facial cosmetic procedures, but he enjoyed seeing the variety of almost everything.  

“As a physician, Thomas approached every patient with a down-to-earth and frank disposition, and people felt comfortable with him almost immediately,” Bryan N. Batson, MD, said. “He loved his patients and exemplified what it meant to put others’ needs ahead of his own. Patients recognized that trait in him, and they loved him in return.” 

“In his department, Thomas was often referred to as ‘the professor’ because of his vast medical knowledge and willingness to teach others,” Dr. Batson continued. “His staff remembers him as one of the most caring people they have ever known, strong in his faith and never too far from his roots of Collins, Miss.” 

Outside of the clinic, Thomas was actively involved and a member of St. Fabian Catholic Church, where he served as the parish’s physician and as a member of the security team. His hobbies included working on his farm and in the garden, fishing and spending time with his family at their land in Utica, Miss., and Bassfield, Miss. 

Thomas was a loving and dedicated provider for his family and leaves behind many cherished memories with those he loved. He will be missed by all those whose life he touched. 

Thoughts and prayers for his family and friends are appreciated during this difficult time.