Mr. Rodney Thomas

Rodney, or as we often called him, Hot Rod, was born in Brooklyn, NY on June 5, 1952 as the first child of the young newlywed couple Dorothy and Oswald Thomas.

As the oldest child, he paved the road upon which the rest would travel. Rodney graduated from Xavier High School In New York where he proudly wore the ROTC uniform with style and grace. After playing football during his high school years, he later spent a lot of time to mentor and coach kids playing football.

Early on, Rodney showed his leadership and people skills as he became Involved in Queens and New York City politics working diligently during election campaigns for Mayor, Assemblymen and Councilmen, which lead to him being appointed as District Manager for his home District 12.

Rodney later embarked on an adventurous move out to California where he continued his life passions. But he didn’t like celebrating New Year’s three hours after the “real” New Year started in New York and decided to return.

After returning to the East Coast, Rodney settled in Richmond, VA, where he continued with his political passions as an active member of the Democratic Party and dedicated lobbyist for the local NAACP.

Rodney was always a very friendly person who could strike up a conversation with anyone and about anything. His knowledge of the most minute details of so many things is something that will never be replaced.

In his free time, Rodney loved watching the old black and white movies, and had a particular fondness for the old cowboy shows and westerns, which he most certainly got from his mother. He enjoyed watching most sports and always had a passion for football, as the sport he once loved to play. He also loved watching cartoons and would share his boisterous laugh with everyone within range.

He loved cars and would regularly reflect on his first car, a convertible Karmann Ghia two-seater with just enough room to lovingly stuff his baby brother in the storage space behind the seats.

Rodney was predeceased by his parents, but leaves behind his siblings Andrea, Donald, Elton, Francesca, Richard and Kevin; his loving long term companion Dr. Rose P. Hatton; his loving niece and caregiver LaKisha Barton; his Daughter LaToya Williams, son-In-law Zeddie Williams, Jr.; and grandchildren Cimone and Zeddie III.; and a host of loving nieces and nephews as well as his grand nieces and nephews, countless friends and supporters for whom he has shed warmth, love and attention to over the years. He will sorely be missed.