Dr. Lionel Cordell Harding-Thomas, 69

Lionel Cordell Harding-Thomas, 69, formerly of Wallace, passed away May 26, 2018. He was born August 23, 1948 in Warren, Ohio; Lionel was the son of Russell and Hortense (Dowe) Thomas.

Lionel attended and graduated from the Warren G. Harding High School of Warren, Ohio. He attended the Washington State University receiving a Bachelor Degree in African American studies, a Masters Degree and a PhD in Counseling and Psychology. While attending WSU, he played defensive back on the football team and was selected to the First Team All Conference in 1969; he was also selected to the First Team All West Coast in 1969 and 1970. Lionel still ranks sixth all time in school history, for interceptions in a single season.

Lionel married Gail Harding on May 22, 1987 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

From 1976-2002, Lionel served as Counselor and Minority Affairs Director for the Spokane Community College and Spokane School District #81. In 2002 Lionel moved to Wallace and served within the community and all schools within the Silver Valley in mental health and counseling.

Lionel was a life-long learner, and an avid reader and fisherman. He found his greatest satisfaction in working with young people and acting as their advocate, and in teaching counseling classes at Whitworth, Gonzaga and Fort Wright.

Lionel is survived by his beloved wife Gail Harding-Thomas; two sons Justin (Kim) Thomas and Jason (Jane) Thomas; four granddaughters Mia, Sophie, Scarlett and Ava; one brother Russell (Daisy) Thomas; an aunt Shirley Smith; Lionel is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and two sisters.

Private Family services will be held.

One may sign Lionel’s online guest book at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com

SHOSHONE FUNERAL SERVICES & CREMATORY KELLOGG, IDAHO is entrusted with cremation services.