Obituary of Captain (Retired) Richard James Thomas

Peacefully, surrounded by his beloved family, on Wednesday, November 1st, 2017. Loving father of Barb (Kevin) Gillingham, Michelle (Kevin) Hill, Debbie (Jeff) Stephenson and Jamie (Leslie) Thomas. Cherished Grandpa of Brandon (Crystal), Kyle (Ashley), Arden, Graydon, Rhiannon, Carly (Mike), Jeremy, Scott, Melanie, Rebecca and Ben. Great-Grandpa of Layla, and soon to be Baby Elliott. Survived by his sister Leah Steele and brother Peter (Elaine) Thomas. Predeceased by his grandchildren, Shane and Stephanie Thomas and his sisters, Charmaine Tuckey, Betty Calligan, Rosemary Lutz and Eleanor Copland. Always remembered by Mary Thomas, his brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews. Treasured friend of Tom Pitt and Sam Newman. Richard was an active volunteer with Cadets for many years, where he was Commanding Officer with 27 Air Cadet Squadron (London), Commanding Officer for 741 Air Cadet Squadron and also for Army Cadet Corps 2414, both of St. Thomas. A memorial service will be conducted at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Friday, November 10, 2017 at 1:00 p.m., with friends being received one hour prior. Interment to follow at Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Dick are asked to consider the Air Cadet League (aircadetleague.com). Thank you to all the staff at McCarthy Place Retirement Home, CarePartners of Stratford and Dr. Keys of Lucan for their wonderful care.