Thomas moved to Memphis as an infant ... first national hit — with 1953's "Bear Cat." By the late '50s, Rufus and wife Lorene's family included a pair of teenagers, piano-playing son Marvell ...

The eldest child of Rufus and Lorene Thomas ... focus on remembering the incredible life of Marvell Thomas.” Thomas is survived by his wife, Naajee, daughter Leah, and sisters Carla and Vaneese.