Richard W. Thomas, Sr.

Richard W. Thomas Sr., of Gainesville, Florida and Akron, NY. Husband of Joyce (Hoefler) Thomas entered into rest on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at his home in Akron. Born in Buffalo, New York on February 9, 1947, to the late Robert E. and Lillian A. (Obermeyer) Thomas.

Richard served in the United States Marine Corp. from 1965 till his discharge in 1967, during this time he served a tour in Vietnam. Mr. Thomas was a retired teacher who had taught building trades for Erie BOCES. Richard was a life member of the Newstead Fire Co. where he served in many capacities and roles since the 1970’s, including as a founding member of the fire company softball team. He was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and Bills Mafia member. Richard enjoyed making assorted candles from left over wax, he was known as a “man who did not like to waste”, a genuine family man, friend to all, and hero to many, “Once a Marine always a Marine”.

Surviving is his wife Joyce (Hoefler) Thomas, their children;  Richard W. (Michelle) Thomas Jr., Tara K. Thomas; his siblings, Linda (Late Dennis) Kawczynski, Bonnie (Tom) Wawrzyniec, Kim (Walter) Kanouff and Robin Thomas. He is predeceased by a sister Dawn (late John) Hustus; Four grandchildren, Ethan, Reed, Zade and Layne Thomas; sister in-law Betsy Seymour; brother in-laws Frank Hoefler III and Donald Hoefler and is predeceased by a sister in-law Koreen Strong, also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at the Newstead Fire Co. 5691 Cummings Rd. Akron, NY 14001 on SATURDAY, August 22nd, 2026, from 1-4 PM. concluding at 4:00 PM. With military honors followed by Celebration of Life gathering. Memorial donations may be made in Richard’s honor to the Newstead Fire Company. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Home of Akron LLC. 

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