Stefan Fernando Thomas

He was born in Washington, DC on December 27, 1962 to the late William H. Thomas and Violet P. Thomas. Stefan came to live with his grandparents at an early age in Virginia and gave his life to Christ and was baptized at Shiloh Baptist Church. He was educated in the Southampton County school system until returning to Washington, DC where he completed his academic studies at Calvin Coolidge Senior High in 1982 and the University of the District of Columbia.

In 1983, Stefan began his military career with the United States Marine Corp at Parrish Island, NC. Assignments were: Camp Lejeune, South Carolina, Camp Pendleton, San Diego, Bolling Air Force, Quantico, Okinawa, Japan; Germany, France, Italy, Iran, Afghanistan and Kuwait. He retired in 2016 with 32 years of service at Camp Pendleton.

He was truly devoted to serving his country. His tour began with the US Marines for 13 years and he continued his service in the US Army Reserves until 911 then he joined the US Army for the remaining of his career. Stefan received many military medals and honors. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. He enjoyed and took much pride in serving his country, completing each task with precision and honor. After retirement from the military, Stefan could not stay at home so went back to work as a civilian servicing his country once again.

Stefan was a people person and could join in any conversation speaking on a multitude of topics. He had an infectious smile that was his trademark to everyone that met him. He especially loved talking about sports. Stefan was an avid Washington Redskins and New York Yankees fan. He was not only a spectator, but also a highly skilled athlete in various sports: baseball, basketball, track and field from scholastic years to adult. He swam like a fish, golfed like Tiger Woods; gained the name “Tigger” and bowled 300s in his San Diego and military leagues. Outside of sports, Stefan was a grill master. He loved cooking on his grill for family and friends. On many occasions he would sing for family and friends giving us a few notes sounding like Barry White.

Stefan enjoyed traveling with Valerie as they attended family gatherings, road trips and visiting his childhood friends in Virginia. They were two peas in a pod. Valerie would visit Stefan in California and they would spend time with his brother Donnie and attend sporting events. Stefan loved family and cherished every moment of life. When returning home from deployments, Stefan loved reminiscing on his younger days growing up in the small country town of Branchville, Virginia and how his grandfather would teach him the ways of farming and his grandmother’s nurturing love. When his big sis Patricia would come to town, he always wanted to go wherever she went and would tag along on family vacations. Once Stefan moved to Washington, DC, his big brother Donnie became his partying buddy, hitting up the popular dance scenes.

He enjoyed spending time with his children and always wanted the best for them. Stefan did not take the role as a father or grandfather lightly when the job permitted. He would travel across country for holidays and milestones including birthdays and graduations. He especially adored his grandchildren and grand nephews. He would encourage and applaud them on their accomplishments.

Stefan’s parents and brother, Donald Spruell proceeded him in death. He leaves to cherish his memories two sons: Stefan and Brandon, three daughters: Kiara, Misha and Stefani, fiancé: Valerie McCall, Washington, DC two sisters: Hazel Patricia Wood, Washington, DC and Terri Spruell, Maryland, one brother: Lindsay Spruell (Evelyn), Alexandria, Virginia; one aunt: Jacquelyn Ponton, three grand-children: Jaylen, Katia and Jaquan, one nephew: Marcus Wood, two nieces: Stephanie and Kimberly Wood, two great nephews, Noah and Imari Wood, Patricia Thomas ex-wife, a host of family and friends.