Thurman Ross Thomas

Tom was born to Lucia M. Ross and Thurman C. Thomas in Toledo, Ohio, on April 20, 1930. He moved to Sacramento, CA at a young age, joined the Armed Forces in July of 1947, and spent 16 years of service overseas. Tom, a Korean War veteran, flew med evac with MASH and combat cargo with troop carriers during the Korean War. He retired from the US Air Force in January 1968. He resided throughout the US in Maryland, California, Florida, Texas, and Washington, and finally settled on Whidbey Island in December of 1988. Tom married Dolores P. (Pat) Velie on September 13, 1952 at Brookley Air Force Base, Mobile, Alabama.

Tom leaves his wife of 52 years and four sons and their wives: Steve & Cathy Thomas of Mukilteo, WA; Mike & Kym Thomas of Chino Hills, CA; Joe and Gerri Thomas of Memphis, TN; Rob and Kathy Thomas of Concrete, WA. Also surviving are 13 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, who will miss “Pop Pop” very much; a sister and brother, and many cousins.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, July 23 at Calvary Chapel Whidbey Island, 3821 French Rd., Clinton, WA, at 10:00 a.m. Memorials may be made to the “Gideons for Bibles” in memory of Thurman R. Thomas.” Arrangements under the direction of Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor, WA.