Paul Richard Thomas

Dr. Paul R.Thomas, 92, Professor Emeritus at The Ohio State University, U.S. Navy Captain (Ret.), devoted family man, and lifelong servant leader, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, in Dublin, Ohio.

Born on October 1, 1932, in Fairfield County, Ohio, to Paul Franklin and Bernice Lucille (Friesner) Thomas, Paul grew up with deep roots in the land and community that would shape a lifetime of service and dedication. A proud patriot, he served his country with distinction during the Korean War, spending 19 months in French Morocco, North Africa, and two years in Washington, D.C. Over four decades of active and reserve service, Paul rose to the rank of Captain in the United States Navy, retiring with honor and gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

Following his military service, Paul pursued his academic passions. After earning his master’s degree, he began his career as a 4-H agent in Franklin County, where he nurtured a new generation of leaders in agriculture and rural development. He went on to earn a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from The Ohio State University in 1967, a milestone that marked the beginning of a distinguished academic career.

At Ohio State, Dr. Thomas taught Agricultural Economics and served as an Extension Economist, later becoming an assistant director and professor. He was a respected voice on the college’s administrative cabinet and the university senate and contributed at state, regional, and national levels through his committee work. His impact extended far beyond the classroom – his guidance, mentorship, and leadership left an indelible mark on colleagues and students alike.

Never one to slow down, Paul continued his career in public service after retiring from Ohio State in 1987, joining the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police as Director of Educational Programs and Department Assessment Centers. His work helped shape the future of law enforcement leadership across the state.

Faith and community were the pillars of Paul’s life. A devoted member of Bethel International United Methodist Church, he gave generously of his time and spirit, continuing to serve long into retirement.

Paul was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ardis, his partner in life for 65 wonderful years. Together, they built a legacy of love, perseverance, and family that lives on through their four children: Scott (Sherry) of Powell, OH; Jeffrey (Karina) of Decatur, GA; David (Karen) of Napoleon, OH; and Cheryl (Brian) Webb of Bethel, OH. He was a proud grandfather and cherished time spent with his grandchildren: Brian (Alexandra) Thomas, Jordan Thomas, Sarah (Ben) Waldron, Laura Thomas, Nicole Thomas, Sofia Thomas, Jackson Coates, Jacob (Carly) Webb, Lilie Webb, and three great-grandchildren: Cecilia, James Allen, and Theodore Waldron. He is also survived by his loving sister, Joan (Rev. Dan) Snider.

Paul lived a life grounded in service – to his country, his students, his faith, and, above all, his family. He will be remembered for his wisdom, humility, sense of humor and quiet strength, and for the many lives he touched through a life well and fully lived.

Visitation for Paul will be held Monday, August 11, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Schoedinger Dublin, 5980 Perimeter Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43017.

A service celebrating Paul’s life will be held at Bethel International United Methodist Church, 1220 Bethel Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220 on Tuesday August 12, at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Glenn Schwerdtfeger officiating. Entombment will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Sunset Cemetery, 6959 W. Broad Street, Galloway, Ohio 43119.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Bethel International United Methodist Church in his honor: https://mybethel.org/