Gerald D Thomas
(October 14, 1949 – November 18, 2013)
Visitation will be held from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 20, 2013 in Howe and Yockey Funeral Home, Strasburg, IL. A private family service will be held on Thursday with Rev. Kathy Lewis officiating. Burial will be in Grace Cemetery, Strasburg, IL with military rites by the Strasburg American Legion Post #289. Memorials may be given to Special Olympics or the American Heart Association.
Jerry was born on October 14, 1949 in Effingham, IL, the son of William Howard “Bill” and Kathleen Marie Culver Thomas. He graduated from Stewardson-Strasburg High School in the Class of 1967 and then served in the U.S. Navy. Jerry later attended Lake Land College. He worked for Caterpillar, Inc. in Decatur as a pipefitter until his retirement. Jerry enjoyed playing golf, watching NASCAR and football, listening to old country music and taking an occasional trip to Vegas. His two granddaughters, Olivia and Emily, were Papa Jerry’s pride and joy.
He is survived by his daughter, Amanda Zary (Michael) of Plainfield, IL; granddaughters, Olivia and Emily Zary of Plainfield, IL; brothers and sisters, Terry Thomas (Dorothy) of Strasburg, IL, Barbara Thomas of Springfield, IL, Beverly Newcomb (Darrell) of Charleston, IL, John Thomas (Tina Warren) of Mattoon, IL, Becky Sappenfield (Ralph) of Newton, IL, Donald Thomas (Marlys) of Cowden, IL, Ron Thomas (Fawn) of Strasburg, IL and Roger Thomas (Barb) of Strasburg, IL; and many nieces and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jim and Randy Thomas and Larry Joe Thomas in infancy.
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