Colonel Max E. Thomas

Colonel Max Thomas (U.S. Army, Retired), age 93, died on July 14, 2025, at his residence in Springfield, VA. He was born August 11, 1932, in Fountain City, Indiana, son of Delmer and Ruth Thomas. Max lived a life guided by faith, family and service.

Max attended Purdue University, earning a B.S. in Animal Husbandry in 1952, along with a commission into the U.S. Army. He later completed an MBA at George Washington University. Max’s distinguished Army career spanned 26 years, including tours of duty in Germany, Korea and two tours in Viet Nam resulting in numerous awards and recognitions for exemplary service to his country.

Max is survived by his loving wife, Dennisse. Max and Dennisse met through 4-H and married on September 5, 1954; they would have been married 71 years this year. They raised 3 children, Brad (wife, Stephanie), Kendra (husband, Bill) and Britt (wife, Kathy). Britt preceded Max in death. Max was grandfather to 6 loving grandchildren, Kirsten, Caitlin, Nathan, Kyle, Justin and Clay as well as 9 great-grandchildren, James, Hudson, Brittney, Bailey, Cameron, Nora, Hailey, Abigail and Owen.

Max served in many community volunteer and leadership roles throughout his adult life. He dedicated much of his time to his church. Max and Dennisse have been members of Walker Chapel United Methodist Church for more than 50 years. They have sung in the choir, organized October Fest and Spring Fest, and served on many administrative boards.

A funeral will be held at Walker Chapel United Methodist Church, 4102 Glebe Rd.; Arlington, VA, on July 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Interment will be at the Walker Chapel Cemetery immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Max’s memory to the Walker Chapel UMC Music Program or The Alzheimer’s Association.