David Reese Thomas

December 27, 1926 – April 5, 2016

David Reese Thomas, 89, went to his eternal rest and reward on April 5, 2016, following a valiant physical battle. His devotion to his family and a firm belief in God supported him in his struggle, and ultimately gave him peace.

David was born on December 27, 1926, in Baltimore, MD, to the late Mary Catherine and Albert Edward Thomas. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during WWII. A 1950 graduate of Johns Hopkins University with a degree in electrical engineering, David had a long and distinguished career with Martin Marietta-Lockheed-Martin Company when he retired after 33 years.

His wife and best friend, Ann Thomas, precede David; they were married for 63 years. A wonderful father of six beautiful children: Sharon Cooper (David), David Thomas (Patricia), Valerie Veise (Chip), Diane Fischer (Don), Renee Relf (Scott), and John Thomas (May). He was the adored grandfather of 13 and great-grandfather of 7.

One of the many talents that he loved to share was his voice. Between 1946 and 1950, he was the lead singer in a Big Band and, as he later told the story, he would have been right up there with Frank Sinatra had he not met the love of his life, Ann who he married in 1949. Dave was invariably willing to sing a song or two on Karaoke Night—always to a grateful audience. He was an avid golfer who enjoyed playing until the end, even when he could only chip and putt. God blessed him with many wonderful friends who will miss his love, sense of humor, and his beautiful voice.

Visitation will be held at Schimunek Funeral Homes, 9705 Belair Rd. Nottingham, MD, 21236 on Sunday, April 10, 2016 from 3:00 to 6:00pm. The family will be there to greet relatives and friends. A celebration Mass of David’s life will be held at St. Michael the Arch Angel Catholic Church 2 Willow Avenue, Baltimore, MD,21206 on Monday, April 11, 2016 at 10:30 am. Interment in Gardens of Faith Cemetery.

The family gratefully declines flowers. For those who would like to make a donation in David’s honor, he was a faithful supporter of The Eternal Word Television Network, 5817 Old Leeds Road, Irondale, AL, 35210, where he tuned in daily to celebrate Mass.