Arlan E. Thomas

Arlan E. Thomas, age 84, of Middletown, RI, formerly of Swansea, MA and Kennett, MO, passed away peacefully at home on June 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of the late Madeline H. (Casilli) Thomas.

Born in Kennett, Missouri, Arlan was the son of the late Dean R. and Alice (Dees) Thomas. A graduate of Kennett High School, he went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army during both the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. In his later years, he displayed his honor on his favorite “Vietnam Era Vet” cap, sported proudly at frequent outings to his favorite breakfast spots. He went on to serve in the Army Reserve and National Guards for an additional 18 years.

Following his military service, Arlan earned an associate’s degree in management from Johnson & Wales University. He worked faithfully as a maintenance superintendent at Ciba-Geigy for 24 years, retiring in 1997. He was known fondly by his colleagues as “Reb,” short for Rebel, out of recognition for his notorious Southern accent amongst New Englanders.

Arlan was a dedicated public servant, well known and respected by his community. He was a proud member and past Commander of the American Legion Post 303, as well as Grand Master of the Independent Order of Oddfellows of Bristol, RI. He served on the Board of the Swansea Ambulance Corps as past President and was a member of the Swansea Board of Health.

Though incredibly admirable, Arlan’s reputation in his community did not stop at public service. A true entertainer, Arlan ensured that no waitress, visitor, or telemarketer was left without hearing a joke. A lover of “honky tonk” country music, Arlan found joy in singing and playing his guitar. Neighbors of his Swansea home may fondly remember gathering upon Arlan’s front steps to hear him, loud and proud, singing along to his guitar from his living room. His passion for music followed him throughout his life, and no day in Arlan’s 84 years was lived without song.

He is survived by his children: Stephanie J. Banister of Middletown, RI and Derek A. Thomas and his wife Robin of Riverside, RI. He was a devoted grandfather to Sarah Jampole and her husband Ezra of New York City, Lindsey Thomas of Riverside, and Olivia Banister, Georgia Banister, and Alana Banister, all of Middletown. Arlan also leaves behind his brother, Marlin Thomas (Ruth) of Oklahoma City, OK, his sister, Norma Jane Bell (Douglas) of Port Anna Maria, FL, and several nieces and nephews. He will also be missed greatly by his faithful dog and cat sidekicks.

He was the brother of the late Budde Thomas, Joyce White, Virginia DeMent, and Leona Castle.

His funeral will be held Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the First Baptist Church, 21 Baptist St, Swansea followed by burial in Thomas Cemetery, Swansea. Relatives and friends are asked to gather directly at church. His visitation will be held Wednesday, July 2, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Waring-Sullivan Home at Birchcrest, 189 Gardners Neck Road, Swansea.