Richard "Rick" Lee Thomas

Richard was born on July 28, 1961, in Torrance, Los Angeles County California, California, to Peggie Armstrong Gonzales. He spent his formative years in Fort Stockton, Texas where he attended Apache Elementary, Fort Stockton Junior High, and graduated from Fort Stockton High School in May 1980.

Immediately following his graduation, Richard dedicated himself to service, enlisting in the U.S. Navy in May 1980. He officially entered naval service on October 1, 1980, completing his training at the U.S. Naval Training Base in San Diego, California. His service took him to the Alameda Naval Air Station, California, where he was homeported.

From 1980 to 1984, Richard proudly served abroad the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-65). Known as a "Grape", he wore the distinct purple shirt of the shipboard Gas and Oil Managers. In this crucial role, he was often called upon to refuel the F-14 Tomcats and F-4 Phantom jets. During his time on the Enterprise, he took part in operations across the Pacific and Indian Oceans and the Persian Gulf, stopping in many ports along the way. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy in October 1984.

Following his military service, Richard continued his career in aircraft refueling, working at Abilene Aero in Abilene, Texas, and later at Austin's Airport, both refueling private aircraft. He also worked for a company specializing in the chemical treatment of water in cooling towers. Most recently, he found meaningful work with Easter Seals, where he was known for beautifully maintaining the landscapes of prominent businesses in and around Austin, Texas.

Richard was preceded in death by his loving mother, Peggy Armstrong Gonzales; his maternal grandparents, Dexter and Hattie Armstrong; his paternal grandmother, Edith Thomas, and his siter Kellie D'Anne.

He is survived by his ex-wife and companion of 37 years, Teresa Liccese Thomas, his beloved nephews, Mark and Stephen Daggett, and his grand-niece, Ella Chipping. He also leaves behind grieving uncles, Wade Anderson and Bill Armstrong, and numerous cousins and family members, as well as many cherished friends.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff of St. David's Round Rock Medical Center who lovingly cared for Rick during his illness. They would also like to thank all of Rick's beloved neighbors, friends and family who took the time to visit him and offer their encouragement.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made to the American Cancer Society.

A visitation service will take place at Cook Walden Capital Parks Funeral Home, located at 14501 N IH 35, Pflugerville, Texas 78660. The visitation is scheduled for December 28, 2025 starting at 11:00am.

A graveside service will be held at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, located at 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, Texas, 75211. The service is scheduled for December 29, 2025, starting at 11:00 am.