Paul Dean Thomas

Paul left home at an early age to begin a life full of adventure while working and traveling the United States. He eventually settled in Columbus, Ohio where he met the love of his Life Ida Mae Thomas (Booth). They were married on December 31st, 1956. In 1960, they moved to Reynoldsburg, Ohio where he personally built their forever home where they shared a lifetime of memories.

Paul was known for his gift of storytelling and his ability to connect with any and everyone he met. He was the exact definition of the phrase "Never met a stranger" and was cherished for his sweet and kind nature. Those who knew and loved him will remember the warmth and love he brought into every conversation and the joy he found in sharing stories that brought smiles to many faces.

He had few hobbies but always looked forward to Deer gun season with his son, brother, nephew, and grandsons. Even in his later years where he would spend more time in the truck than in the stand due to his health. To him, it was quality time spent connecting in nature creating lasting memories and future stories.

Paul retired from Buckeye Steel after an impressive 43-year career. Beyond his career, Paul was deeply devoted to his faith. He served as an ordained deacon for 55 years at various churches including Brice Road Free Will Baptist Church, Hillview Free Will Baptist Church, and Wagram Free Will Baptist Church where he was a current member. He took great joy in sharing the gospel with others and was known for his unshakable faith and joyful spirit that reflected the love of Jesus.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Ida Mae Thomas; sisters Glenda Philbrook, Datsey Thomas, Melba (Ronnie) Andrews, and Martha (Warren) Watkins; daughter Carol Ann (Rex) Lovejoy; son Roger Dean (Laurie) Thomas; grandsons Paul Allen Lovejoy and Charles Westley (Kim) Lovejoy; granddaughters Rachel Dawn (Daniel) Fraker, Rachel Louise (Luke) Jackson, and Ashley Nicole (Drew) Jackson; as well as ten great-grandchildren who were a source of immense pride and joy in his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mattie Thomas; sister Elfredia (Jessie) Lucas; brothers Wesley Ladale (Carolyn) Thomas and Charles Jerome (June) Thomas; Daughter-in-law Judy Thomas.

Paul’s legacy is one of love, kindness, faithfulness, and connection. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

2 Timothy 4:7-8 "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day-and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing".

Friends and family may call from 11a.m. – 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at Wagram Freewill Baptist Church, 272 Blueview Dr. SW, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068. Funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the church with Pastor Leonard Preston officiating. Interment will be at Kirkersville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Wagram Freewill Baptist Church in Paul’s memory.