Robert Leon Thomas

Robert, born August 23, 1945, was the second child of Master Sargent Ernest Robert and Lucille Ernestine Thomas. He was united with Jesus Christ at an early age and became a member of First Baptist Church.

He is a 1963 graduate of the Original L. C. Anderson High School. After high school he continued to pursue his scholastic interests and athletic prowess at Trinidad Community College, Phoenix College and San Francisco State College. Robert was an avid reader of the arts, philosophy, government and political science. His love for continuous learning combined with varied life experiences as an artist, competitive bodybuilding, construction worker, semiprofessional football player and union member contributed to the depth of his knowledge. Robert’s commitment to community service and devotion to social justice were the foundation for his statesmanship and passionate advocacy for East Austin projects at city council and community meetings.

He is preceded in death by his biological parents and guardians Mr. Aaron and Mrs. Christina Ford.

Survivors: Sisters Emma J. Brown (Willie), Dianna L. Thomas, Brothers Ernest L (Myrtle) and Danny L. (Gay) and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from six o’clock until eight o’clock in the evening, on Monday, the 23rd of January 2012, at Cook-Walden Funeral Home, 6100 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas.

Funeral services will be conducted at eleven o’clock in the morning on Tuesday, the 24th of January 2012, at First Baptist Church-Heflin, 4805 Heflin Lane, Austin, Texas with Dr. Henry L. McGee, Sr. and Rev. Danny Thomas officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery under the direction of Cook-Walden Funeral Home.

Condolences may be sent to www.cookwaldenfuneralhome.com.