Colonel Harry A. Thomas Jr. U.S.A.F. (Ret.)

Born to a coal miner and housemaker in rural Pennsylvania on June 20, 1934, Harry found his purpose in his early twenties, much earlier than most of us. He graduated from Schuylkill Haven High School in 1952 and enrolled at Pennsylvania State University. After one year of college, however, he knew his true calling included service to his country, so he enlisted in the United States Air Force.

Harry began his military career on July 12, 1954, at Vance Air Force Base in Enid, Oklahoma. While stationed there, he met Bertha (Bert) Loucks, and they were married on March 17, 1956. The adventure began in Enid with the birth of the first of their 6 sons.

Despite a growing family and a busy military career, Harry remained steadfast in his education, earning his degree in U.S. History. He was commissioned as an Officer on September 18, 1959. Through his career, they lived on ten military stations across the United States, Guam and Germany. He earned numerous Merit Awards, Good Conduct Medals, and the Air Force Longevity Service Award. He successfully attained the rank of Colonel and retired on July 31, 1989.

Upon his retirement from the U. S. A. F., he returned to Texas, where he then began serving his local community. He devoted his time, talent and treasure to the growth and expansion of First Baptist Church of Universal City (FBCUC), joining the staff of FBCUC as Education Administrator and later, Church Administrator.

Harry lived a life marked by dedication to his faith, family and country. He exhibited this dedication to his faith by serving as a Deacon and Sunday school teacher for almost 60 years, dedication to his family with Thomas family reunions filled with games and laughter, and dedication to his country with 35 years of honorable service.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Bert, his sons and daughters-in-law: Linda (Robert, deceased) of Georgetown, KY; William (Lisa) of Reno, NV; Richard (Debbie) of Reno, NV; James (Gaylene) of Las Vegas, NV; David (Laura) of The Woodlands, TX; John (Lori) of Marion, TX.

He is also survived by grandchildren Shannon Barea, Jason (Brandy) Homan, Aubrey Thomas, Connor Thomas, Anthony Smith, Nicholas Smith, Ty Thomas, Kyle Thomas, Cole Thomas, Kaya Thomas, Alayna Thomas, Zach (Amanda) Thomas, Sam (Annika) Thomas, Jake Thomas, Parker Thomas, Rylee Thomas, and Tessa Thomas. Additionally, he is survived by great-grandchildren Nick Homan, Madison Homan, Aubrey Homan, Zachary Barea and Wade Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harry A. Thomas, Sr. and Margaret Thomas, sister Patricia Shively, son Robert Thomas, and grandson Mark Thomas.

He will be forever remembered for his genuine nature and friendly, accepting demeanor. He made people feel safe and accepted. He led by example and leaves lasting memories with those who were blessed to love and be loved by him.

In lieu of flowers, Harry requested donations to be made to Enduring Love Foundation at First Baptist Church of Universal City. https://www.fbcuc.org/enduring-love-foundation/

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 10:30am at First Baptist Church of Universal City, 1401 Pat Booker Rd., Universal City, TX 78148.