Gary Wesley Thomas

He was born in Elkins, West Virginia to Daisy Reynolds and Everrett Coontz on January 25, 1944, was relocated to Jacksonville, FL and adopted by Aubrey Thomas when he later married Daisy Reynolds. He attended Andrew Jackson High School until joining the United States Marine Corp at the age of 17 and receiving his GED. He enlisted in 1961, serving boot camp at Parris Island S.C, locating to El Toro, California and finishing his service in Hawaii achieving a rank of E-3 Lance Corporal. He received several accolades while serving, such as Good Conduct Medal, Pistol Expert and Rifle Sharpshooter badges of honor though his specialty was in aviation. He received an Honourable Discharge in 1967. He was married to Elaine Stuart Thomas on May 13, 1994 until her passing in 2016. After his service in the Marines, he began what would be a lifelong career in Telecommunications working for Southern Bell/BellSouth/AT&T/ Lucent Technologies for close to 40 years before joining Area Communications, where he retired from last year. He has been a member of AOPA, EAA, and American Legion for many years until his passing.

He had a passion for airplanes his whole life becoming a certified pilot for many years, his love for his animals and family, having a quick-witted sense of humor, of life in general, a man that was well liked and respected throughout the community.

He is survived by daughters: Pamela Swan ( Ron Swan ), Tammy Murrell ( Michael Murrell ), Granddaughter : Amanda Murrell, Brother : Michael Thomas, Sister in Law : Martha Stuart

Memorial arrangements will be held from 4-8 pm July 10, 2021 at Hardage-Giddens Riverside Memorial Park and Funeral Home 7242 Normandy Blvd Jacksonville, Florida 32205. Funeral service and interrment will be held at 12:30 Sharp on July 12,2021 at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, Florida 32218. ( Please do not be late if attending this) Dress code for this is extremely casual.