Ernest Andrew Thomas

March 29, 1964 – July 21, 2024

With deep sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Ernest Andrew Thomas, affectionately known as Andy. Andy was born on March 29, 1964, in China Lake, California Naval Base, to Elizabeth C Thomas and Cmdr. Richard S Thomas. He grew up primarily in London and La Jolla, California. He cherished his family history and enjoyed collecting all things Studebaker, in honor of his great, great grandfather Clement Studebaker, founder of the automobile company. Andy graduated from La Jolla High School in 1982 and studied at Regis University and the University of Denver, earning a degree in Hotel Management. He was also a proud member of the SAE Fraternity.

Andy was well known by his friends and family as "The Host with the Most." He always had a chilled bottle of champagne and his friends’ favorite beverages ready to be poured. He loved weekend brunches, attending the opening night of a play, or the latest concert. Andy enjoyed traveling with his many friends and had recently traveled to Scotland, Cuba, and Germany. His most recent trip with many friends and family celebrated his 60th birthday in Tulum, Mexico.

Andy's dedication to his career was unwavering. He spent 31 years at Evans Hotels, a family business he greatly respected. As Senior Vice President for Business Development, Andy was a valued colleague and mentor who led with his heart and put kindness and caring at the center of all he did. His contributions to the industry were recognized with a Gold Key Award from the San Diego County Lodging Association.

An admired leader in the field, Andy held advisory positions with Expedia Group, Agilysys, Hotels.com, Travelocity, the San Diego Tourism Authority, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, and more. Dedicated to his community, Andy served on the boards of Discover Mission Bay, La Jolla Playhouse, the San Diego Fire-Rescue Foundation, the San Diego International Film Festival Foundation, and the Rob Benzon Dan Ferbal Foundation.

Andy's love for his family and friends was boundless. He is survived by his older brother, Ric Thomas and his wife, Kelly, and his younger sister, Libby Bentley. Known as "Uncle Fun," Andy is also survived by his adored nieces and nephews: Carlisle Bentley Spalten and her husband Jack, Jake Bentley, Kenan Thomas, and Jett Thomas. Additionally, he leaves numerous fabulous friends who were more like family, many of whom shared friendships spanning 25 years or more. Andy's loss is deeply felt by all who knew him. He was the true embodiment of an incredible friend.

Andy Thomas will be forever remembered for his warmth, and generosity. His legacy, marked by kindness and dedication, will continue to inspire us all. His impact will be felt in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. We will all cherish our memories with Andy and always look at a blue Polo ball cap with a bit of melancholy and sweet remembrance. He will be deeply missed.

Andy’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, September 7, at The Lodge at Torrey Pines. The service will be at 2:00 PM, followed by a reception. Please come casual, as Andy’s favorite attire was relaxed. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the La Jolla Playhouse

https://lajollaplayhouse.org/andythomas/ or the San Diego Fire-Rescue Foundation https://sdfirerescue.networkforgood.com/projects/116549-donate-today.