George Thomas

George Thomas, longtime owner of Galloping Hill Inn—the well-known hot dog restaurant—and Galloping Hill Caterers, the banquet facility, died Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, at the age of 96. Born July 26, 1930, in Thessaloniki, Greece, George’s life was marked by steadfast work, thoughtful leadership, and a faithful commitment to the people and places he served.

For decades, the two iconic businesses stood as familiar landmarks in the Union community. Galloping Hill Inn, famously known for its hot dogs, dates to 1925, and George owned the businesses for 41 years. Through his hard work and resilience, he helped sustain not only a pair of beloved institutions, but also a sense of welcome and tradition that generations came to cherish.

George’s contributions to Union extended well beyond the restaurant. In 2019, he received the Greater Union Township Chamber of Commerce’s Spirit of Union Award in recognition of Galloping Hill Caterers’ standing as an icon in the food, restaurant, and hospitality industry, as well as his generosity to others. “I like the people of Union, and I like to help them when they need it,” George said at the time—words that reflected a devoted and generous spirit, and a life guided by care for neighbors and community.

That generosity took many forms, including providing free meals and parties, donating to charities, and supporting fundraising events. His willingness to help neighbors and community organizations earned him recognition beyond the restaurant industry, and those who knew him remember a wise and steady presence—someone who gave thoughtfully and who understood that lasting strength is built through service.

In 2017, George opened his doors to help victims of Hurricane Irma, giving one hundred percent of the donations to the Volunteer Florida Organization. “I’ve been in the restaurant business 70 years,” George said at the time. “I wanted to do something to help those in need. All of my life I’ve tried to help people in need. I believe we are born to help our friends.” In moments like these, his faithful sense of responsibility and his enduring devotion to others shone clearly.

George was predeceased by his cherished wife of over 65 years, Mary; his parents, Demetrius and Sunday Papathomas; and his son, James Thomas.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved daughter, Lori, and her husband, Frank Vastano; grandsons James and George Vastano; step-grandchildren Frankie and his wife, Katrina Vastano, and Vanessa and her husband, Michael Defies; and their children Mila, Chloe, Michael and Dominic. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Patsy Trepcos and her children Elaine, Jacqueline, John, and Nephew Dean Mavrovitis, along with his favorite

Yorkie, Vivi.

Visitation will be held at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 250 Gallows Hill Rd, Westfield, NJ 07090, on November 2, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will be held at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 250 Gallows Hill Rd, Westfield, NJ 07090, on November 3, 2026, at 11:00 am.

A Committal Service will follow at Fairview Cemetery & Arboretum, 1100 E Broad St, Westfield, NJ 07090, on November 3, 2026.