Irving was born on June 7, 1931 in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire to Chester and Effie Thomas. Irving joined the Air Force in 1949 and served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Irving married Delia Cope of Paris, TX on July 4, 1953. Together they raised four sons and a daughter. Irving retired from the military in 1969 as a Master Sergeant. Upon retirement he went to work for Texas Instruments where he remained until his retirement. Irving loved travel, animals, playing cards, and in his later years loved long out of the way trips to the casino. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Delia, of nearly 60 years. Irving is survived by five children, Jack Thomas and wife Martha of Garland, TX, Terry Thomas of Lowell, MA, Anthony Thomas and wife Terrie of Tampa, FL, Johnny Thomas and wife Pamela of Mesquite, TX, Tina Murphy and husband Tom of Forney, TX; as well as 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Irving has touched so many hearts and will be missed by so many here on earth. He has undoubtedly already brightened so many as he begins his heavenly journey.
