Gordon Thomas

Oct 15, 2025 | Team Member Spotlights

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For Gordon L. Thomas, patient advocacy specialist at Our Lady of the Angels Hospital, the past 10 years have been filled with meaningful encounters and moments that affirm why he chose this ministry.

“I’ll admit, I first took the job because it was close to home,” Gordon says with a smile. “But I stay because the mission, vision and values of FMOL Health resonate so clearly with my own. I’m here — as long as they’ll have me — because it feels like home!”

A Grounding Moment at Family Fest

Among many memorable experiences, one stands out above the rest: the hospital’s first Family Fest at Goodyear Park. Gordon was working an information booth as the Louisiana Legislature debated budget cuts that threatened safety-net hospitals like Our Lady of the Angels.

While sharing updates with the community, a couple in power chairs approached his table. “They each reached out, took my hands and said, ‘This hospital is all we have. Please fight for us, because if this hospital goes away — we die!’” Gordon recalls.

The experience changed him forever.

“I cried then, and I still do when I think about it. In that moment, I believe I heard God say, ‘I put you here for such a time as this. Make a difference.’ Since then, I’ve never questioned whether I was meant to be here.”

Rooted in His Community

For Gordon, serving patients at Our Lady of the Angels is especially meaningful because of his deep local ties.

“I was born in this building, back when it was Bogalusa Community Medical Center,” he says. “I know most of our patients, or I knew their parents or extended family. So, it’s taking care of friends.”

When asked about his favorite part of the job, Gordon doesn’t hesitate.

“The people,” he says. “A lot of folks think I listen to complaints all day, but I really hear people telling us how we can improve. That perspective matters, and it helps us make their experience better.”

Inspired by Steady Leadership

Over the years, Gordon has had many mentors, but one stands out: Ralph Serpas III.

“When I started, he was CNO. Now he’s our COO and Administrator. I’ve seen him deal with life-or-death situations with a calmness that inspires confidence. I don’t know if he realizes how much that example means to people, but it does.”

As Gordon reflects on a decade of service, it’s clear he’s found his calling in patient advocacy.

“This ministry is about more than healthcare,” he says. “It’s about people, faith and making a difference when it matters most.”

Interested in joining the FMOL Health team? Learn more here.

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