Lamar Ernest Thomas

Lamar E. Thomas, born 02/03/1929 passed away peacefully on 04/12/2023. His wife of 59 years, Beatrix Zak Thomas preceded him in death. His loss is felt immensely by his children, Leah Thomas Russell, Celeste Thomas, Jamie Thomas, Jeremy Thomas, and his wife Diane. Papa will be missed by his dear grandchildren Cellina Russell, Britta Nissinen, Gabrielle Russell Parker and husband Tony, Kyle McManus, Garett McManus and wife Jennifer, and Zak Russell, as well as his great grandsons Vaden Brown and Connor McManus, and great-granddaughter Kamryn Russell.

Lamar was a southern gentleman born in Barton, SC and raised in Savannah, GA. After graduating from Savannah High School, he joined the United States Air Force and served for over 24 years. Upon retirement he continued his career as a Civil Service Comptroller and retired again after 25 years. Lamar and his beloved wife B relocated to Daytona Beach Shores where they enjoyed acting in commercials and small budget movies. Lamar’s claim to fame was a speaking role in two episodes of the MTV sitcom The Inbetweeners. Lamar and B loved to travel, and they racked up several thousand miles visiting Argentina, Australia, China (twice), England, Figi, Germany, Ireland, Poland, Russia, etc.

After the death of his beloved wife, Lamar was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease. Despite this, he stayed active in his church, Church of the Epiphany. He served as a Eucharistic and Liturgical minister, and he was the Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus. He was a member of the Halifax Historical Museum and the Daytona Beach Symphony Society. Lamar liked routine, and he visited his beloved wife’s gravesite once a week, followed by happy hour at the Orlando Citrus Club, where he taught the bartenders the correct way to make his favorite cocktail, an Old Fashioned with Jameson whiskey, and no vermouth. Another once-a-week routine was brunch at First Watch in Daytona Beach, followed by the latest movie at CMX Cinemas. Then he’d finish up his outing with a visit to Total Wine and More for taste testing - where he was greeted by name; much to the amusement of his family!

Once Parkinsons became too much for Lamar to care for himself, he moved to Orlando with his daughter Celeste, who lovingly cared for him over the next three years. Lamar will be remembered for his love of the Atlanta Braves, the TV series Ancient Aliens, and a fun spirited game of Rumi-cube. His family will cherish memories of his quiet wit, his fondness for Publix Key Lime Pie, and his nightly Jameson Old Fashion. Most of all Lamar will be remembered for his love and devotion to his family and his faith.

There will be a Celebration of Life service at Glen Haven Memorial Park Cemetery Saturday June 17th at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers the family requests a love offering be made to Parkinsons Association of Central Florida in memory of Lamar Thomas.

On Saturday June 17th at 11:00 AM. The family will have a Graveside Service at Glen Haven Memorial Park Cemetery.

Please join us at 12:00 noon for a Celebration of Life at Fiddlers Green Irish Pub, 544 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Donations can be made on-line to https://www.parkinsoncf.org/donate

Or by Mail Parkinsons Association of Central Florida PO Box. 3337, Winter Park, FL 32790-3337