Neil Kent Thomas

Neil went into mechanical engineering at the University of Wisconsin, following his BA with a Masters at University of Southern Indiana. His genius led him to NASA’s Apollo mission team, and he became one of the most well-respected leaders in his field.

At home, he was the gentle giant. Neil met his late wife, Jane, at a plastics company where they both worked; and, he raised her family as his own. He provided for them in every way. Jane’s first son, Jack, had already grown out of the home when Neil joined it…but later in their story, they became best friends. Jack encouraged Neil to bring his genius to the classroom, and Neil did in fact become an educator later in life. And in the end, when Jack cared for Neil in his final days, they outdid one another with kindess, and the only thing they argued about was the existence of aliens.

Neil has left an incredible legacy.

He was preceded in death by his dear parents & beloved wife Jane, his stepsons, Mark and Patrick, and his brother, Rod.

Neil is survived by his loving stepson Jack D. Smith, Jr with wife Gloria Smith, stepson Geoffrey Smith; grandkids Heather Jane, Brannon Neil, Joshua, Meghan, Konatsu, Akito, David, and James; and great grandkids Dessimber, Silas, Evelyn, and Theodore.

Kind condolences may be offered in our “Add a Memory” section of this website.