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BORN
1934
DIED
2017
Richard Thomas Obituary
Thomas, who opened the health food eatery R. Thomas Deluxe Grill at 1812 Peachtree St. in Buckhead in 1985, died Wednesday, according to What Now Atlanta, who confirmed the death with his family.
Before that, he served as president of operations at Kentucky Fried Chicken and Pizza Hut, was also a founder of a Charlotte restaurant that eventually became the Bojangles' Famous Chicken & Biscuits chain.
In addition to its menu of healthy items, which was before its time in Atlanta, R. Thomas is also known for being open 24 hours and for its colorful collection of parrots, flowers and plants outside the restaurant. The restaurant marked Thomas' 350th venture in the restaurant industry when it opened.
After years working in the fast food industry, he said in a 1985 interview with the AJC that he "just didn't want to do anymore fast food."
"In my search for improved physical health, I found a parallel between what we have done to the outer environment and what is happening to our health," he said in a 1998 interview. "I started reflecting on my career, and it dawned on me how dangerous I had been to the public (in my work), serving all the fatty foods I had been selling. I wanted to clean up my act."
After getting out of the industry, he "spent a year and a half traveling around the country looking for some ideas and (R. Thomas) is what I came up with."
Thomas, who himself was a trained chef who graduated from the Culinary Institute of San Francisco, left most of the operation of the business to his children and grandchildren.
"I've been in the food business all my life, " Thomas said in 1998. "But I've never had people come up and thank me for the style of food we are doing, like they do now. It's rewarding."
Customers and friends remembered Thomas on the restaurant's Facebook page
Read more about Richard Thomas and his restaurant on ajc.com
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Thomas
61 Entries
jordan-snow
January 13, 2023
he was my great-grandfather im am vary gloomy that he is gone
Shamika Watson
September 18, 2019
I am really sorry to hear of Mr.Thomas's
passing ! He was such a Great Man ! he will be missed ,i have been going to R. Thomas since the 80's . I Love the peaceful atmosphere and the
Beautiful Birds!!! The Food is amazing! RIP Mr. Thomas (we will be missed Greatly)
Shamika Watson
Vickie Pearson
January 12, 2019
I'm so sorry Mr. Thomas is gone he was a very nice person, loved going to R Thomas's to eat! God bless!
JOHN PETRUSKA
June 14, 2018
WAS SORRY TO LEARN OF DICKS PASSING. WAS LOOKING FORWARD TO POSSIBLY SEEING HIM AT OUR 65TH HIGH SCHOOL REUNION THIS SEPT. GUESS THAT WILL HAVE TO HAPPEN AT A LATER DATE. HE WAS INDEED QUITE A GUY.
Jessica Abreu
March 20, 2017
I'm so saddened by the news of Mr. Thomas' passing. I've been so grateful for his creation for almost two decades now. R. Thomas Deluxe Grill is one of the few restaurants I can visit when I'm in Atlanta and know that I'll find healthy, delicious food I can eat and enjoy. I love the parrots, the atmosphere, and most of all the kindness and thoughtfulness of R. Thomas himself, who would often be there, tending to the birds, the plants and the customers. So, so sad. Thank you so much for all that you have given and created and for inspiring us all by your example to be better people.
February 15, 2017
My brother Bob and I have great memories of Dick from times he spent sitting in our kitchen in Niles and the deep care he had for friends. We were fortunate to have known him. Nourma
Montgomery White and Bob Montgomery
Maggie (Margaret) Curtis Henn
February 11, 2017
Thanks to the Thomas family for giving me my first job in Niles, MI working at the drive-in! Thanks for the many great high school memories as we grew up and graduated in the class of 1953! Dick was a hard working dedicated man!
Drea
February 11, 2017
I came to Atlanta from the healthier Los Angeles and despaired I'd never find clean food. Thank you forever for your thoughtful menu, fresh ingredients, friendly staff and open all hours. I will miss you kind face too.
BL
February 7, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
February 6, 2017
My condolences to the family and friends as you cherish the wonderful memories you shared may the love and joy give you peace and know that you are never alone God is always there for us Psalms 18:6 BM
Lynn & Vance McBride
February 3, 2017
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
David and Cheri Maisel
February 2, 2017
Thank you for your contribution in founding Bojangles'. Your vision and leadership help create a great company that has sustained and prospered our family. We are great full.
Alisa M
February 2, 2017
I had the privilege of working for Richard for 6 years. In all my working history, I had never been made to feel like such a rockstar as a I did being his administrative assistant. He was beyond generous and appreciative of every little thing I did. He was a man of very high expectations but that only made you want to be better all the time. That was his affect. His tenacity for life will always be an inspiration and I am grateful to have had him and his daughter, Linay as part of my journey and to have been a part of theirs for a season.
Myra Kucera
February 1, 2017
Dear Richard -- I'll never forget how you always cheered whenever you saw my husband and me running down Peachtree! It was always such a pleasure to stop and talk to you in front of R. Thomas. You always had such nice things to say, and were a humble soul. We'll miss you so much, my dear friend -- RIP.
Wanda Campbell
February 1, 2017
Just discovered R Thomas in 2014 but love the restaurant and the birds! I talked with Mr Thomas a few times and he was always so friendly. I will miss his not being there. He truly created a warm and unique place which I hope will continue. My thoughts are with his family and employees at this sad time.
Robert Beck
February 1, 2017
Thank you for accepting me into your family grandpa, I wish that I had gotten to know you a little better. That loss I deeply regret seeing as how you touched so many lives. Rest In Peace, know that you will always be loved and remembered.
Roger Koenigshof
February 1, 2017
Our sympathies to Richard's family. He built wonderful memories with people from different walks of life. We visited the Deluxe Grill occasionally in the years we have been in Atlanta, however, we knew him best as Dick, back in Niles, Michigan. My in-laws knew his family well and went to school with him. Me and people my age knew him best from the Thomas Drive In where he helped his mother manage the restaurant. Great memories of a wonderful, creative, and unique man.
Kristi
February 1, 2017
I will miss seeing you with a parrot sitting on your hand or shoulder as you make your friendly rounds. Thank you so much for your legacy of establishing a 24/7 healthy eatery- I have gone there for about 20 years now. Rest In Power!
Madison Carlista
February 1, 2017
Thank you Mr. Thomas for your warm spirit and hands on service. You are definitely a highlight in ATL Culture. I will miss seeing you during the Peachtree Road Race. It's never GoodBye, just see ya around later.
You have served your purpose here for this life well. Enjoy the ride!!
Diana Baird Rose
January 31, 2017
To Richard's family, especially Margie,
Please accept my loving sympathy even though I haven't seen either of you since high school.
Don Cameron
January 31, 2017
Not only did I enjoy seeing Richard when visiting as a customer, but I would often walk by and find him tending to his birds, or watering the plants, always with the warmest most wonderful smile, and a kind word. Those exchanges were quite wonderful.
He made the world better and he is in a much better place. My deepest sympathies toward your loss and, certainly, I hope your family has all that you need during this time. God Bless You!
January 31, 2017
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
David Pitts
January 30, 2017
To the Family, My deepest sympathy for your loss. I had the fortune to work for him shortly after R' Thomas opened. He gave me the opportunity to work for him with as a person with no wait experience. It was A time when I badly needed work and was having difficulty finding it. Thank you Richard Thomas.
The time I worked there has become a rich source of stories and lessons that I carry with me. The most amazing thing about him (for me) was his ability to remember you after not seeing him for a very long time. There is no sparkle on Peachtree street greater than Richard Thomas and his Deluxe Grille.
Gaila
January 30, 2017
My sincere condolences to family and friends of Richard Thomas. I did not personally know Mr Thomas, but I appreciate that despite his professional success, he had personal success as a husband and father, as well. He also had a conscience for doing good works; which has great value in the eyes of God. May the God who "binds the brokenhearted" and 'comforts those who mourn"; sustain you all during this very difficult time; Isaiah 61: 1,2. So sorry for your loss.
Pam Montgomery
January 30, 2017
Uncle Dick, I have thought of you so much and wondered how you were. I remembered your restaurant, and the bird cages next to the Street. The laughter, and joy in your voice when you talked not only of your restaurant, but the kids, grandkids and Aunt Helen. God gave us someone special to join the Mead Family.
T M
January 30, 2017
I would like to express my condolences during this time of loss. I hope you find the strength and comfort you need to get through this difficult time. Matt 5:4 - Happy are those who mourn since they will be comforted.
Kay Goldstein
January 29, 2017
To Richard's Family, our sincere condolences. Richard was a friend, a man of many talents and amazing energy, compassionate and full of integrity. My family enjoyed so many visits to his place is ever growing spot on Peachtree and always left with a smile and full of good healthy delicious food. He didn't just have a green thumb..everything about him grew beautiful things.
Rest in Peace, dear Richard. You are missed.
Kay Goldstein
Christopher O'Hanion
January 29, 2017
Richard was the wonderful Willy Wonkaesque ring master of a culinary circus . For his guests and staff he provided years of fond memories and satisfied taste buds. I was fortunate enough to be one of the original staff hired in 1985.
Richard provided the catalyst for so many people's lives to change for the better. Thank you boss for all you have done for myself and all who visited your funky little oasis. Heaven will be better fed and be a little bit more eclectic thanks to you.
Richard Krebs
January 29, 2017
So sorry to lose a most unique and really cool guy. His restaurant was one of my favorites, especially with out-of-towners, who had never seen such a one of a kind place. And the food was so good, also.
BH
January 28, 2017
With sympathy may there be peace in knowing god and his son.John 17:3
Carolyn Moore
January 28, 2017
Richard was an extradoary friend, magician, Gardner , and a creative genius with food. He always gave of himself to children with all his fabulous birds and the many magical quarters. His flowers always were beautiful. The great Halloween pumpkins carved, and the size were always fun. He will be missed terribly. May he fly free and God be with him. C. Moore
Charles A Rev.21:4
January 28, 2017
I'm very sorry to hear of the passing of your love one Richard. May you find peace and comfort in the God of all comfort.
D Crump
January 28, 2017
Thank you R.for your good food, kindness and smile. We will miss you. RIP
Bette Mozdzen
January 28, 2017
I was truly saddened to hear of Richard's passing.R. thoma's Grill was my favorite place to be in the year I lived in Atlanta as well as every visit thereafter. Richard was one of the kindest, funniest and generous people I have met anywhere. I loved his way of making people feel comfortable and welcome wherever he was. I had the joy and honor of meeting him in a spiritual context and he was an amazing soul who MADE A DIFFERENCE in the lives of others and the WORKD!
We were all blessed by knowing him. Shine your light in Heaven, Richard. Meet you again one day!
Elayne Reiner
January 28, 2017
I am so deeply saddened to hear you passed! I have been a regular since the beginning! Every time I have out of guests I always take them to R. Thomas Grill! You had such a vision and it sustained itself all these years because of you! The attention and care you gave to your staff, food, birds, plants and patrons stood out above the rest! You always had time to say "Hi, how ya doing?" I so appreciate who you were and what you gave to us all! Thank you! Soar High! Farewell ~ My condolences to all who know and loved you.
Ramona Constantaras
January 27, 2017
Dear Richard
I remember delivering bread one day to the restaurant and you were on the rooftop fixing something. I about had a heart attack when I saw you up there. I said Richard come down, you'll kill yourself! He said, whatever, and carried on doing whatever he was doing. He always had a smile on his face no matter What! I feel privileged to have known him. A very special human being. Rest in peace Richard. You will be missed.
Mark Kicklighter
January 27, 2017
Thank you sir, for all you did in the culinary world. I have eaten at that first Bojangles in Charlotte, NC many times. You will surely be missed here, but you are now making us all a Bojangles in heaven.
G B
January 27, 2017
The restaurant was a welcoming place for many of us with friends after a late night in Atlanta.
Always a colorful site on Peachtree.
God Bless
me and Gracie
Terry Lipsky
January 27, 2017
Years ago I used to come to eat with my cockatoo Gracie. Sorry to hear about your loss. Prayers to the family
Georgianna with Richard's doves
Kaundra Madge
January 27, 2017
My husband and I, along with our children, eat here at least once a month. The day our first daughter was born, a friend asked me what food I wanted and I said breakfast from R. Thomas--anything. Richard treated our children as his own, giving them coins urging them to finish their food, showing them magic tricks, putting doves on their heads. He was a magical man, full of love and compassion for people. We are so truly sad about his passing. We will continue to eat at his restaurant in the hope it will continue to be the bright shining star in our beloved Atlanta. We will miss you, Richard! Love, The Madges
Shane McGeehin
January 27, 2017
So sorry for your loss. Glad to have met the man last year.
January 27, 2017
God gives us hope even in death. Continue to exercise faith in him. (John 25, 26)
January 27, 2017
Will never forget our gathering for breakfast as a small group. before the July 4th Peachtree Road Race. You were always the gracious host, with great servers. I also remember you sharing pictures and stories of you trip to Asia. You and your restaurant are an Atlanta treasure. I had never seen so many birds and plants in a restaurant setting. You brought such different vibes to R Thomas restaurant. We will remember you with Love...
Marion Campbell
January 27, 2017
I always wanted to go, but somehow never went. I am sorry to hear of his passing. I don't know how many lessons it takes before it sinks in...don't postpone things you want to do. I am sure he found happiness.
January 27, 2017
We mourn with you. May you find comfort in God's Word at Matthew 5:4.
BH
January 27, 2017
Sorry for your loss may there be comfort in knowing that god cares for you. 1st peter 5 : 7
T M
January 26, 2017
I would like to express my condolences during this time of loss. I hope you find the strength and comfort you need to get through this difficult time. Matt 5:4 - Happy are those who mourn since they will be comforted.
Reed
January 26, 2017
Always friendly and polite. The world would be a far better place with more people like Mr. Thomas. It is now a little poorer. Rest well Sir.
January 26, 2017
my condolences for your loss.
1 Thess.4:14
miki bell
miki bell
January 26, 2017
Stephen Curry
January 26, 2017
Thanks for creating such a unique fixture in our city, and for enriching the quality of life for Atlantans for so very long. Love to your family and may you rest in peace.
Thanks for all the joy you brought to my family!
Robert Scott Bell
January 26, 2017
Richard brought such joy to my whole family, especially my kids, who lit up every time they would see him! What a wonderful light we have lost. I pray that Richard's legacy lives on with his family and all the people who are touched and nourished at R. Thomas.
Love,
Robert Scott Bell and family
Seketha Wilson
January 26, 2017
May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of deep sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. My sincerest condolences. Psalms 116:15.
The Mayer
January 26, 2017
We have lost a great man on earth while God has gained a great soul with the passing of R. Hugs & blessings to his family, employees & birds. We will love & miss him forever. Thank you for sharing him with us!!!!
The Mayers
January 26, 2017
God knows, we have lost a GREAT man with the passing of R. However, God has gained a GREAT soul in heaven. We will love & miss him forever. Many hugs & blessings to R's family & employees. Thank you for sharing him with us!
Gregory Buffington
January 26, 2017
Thank you for sharing your passion with all of us!
Denise Beadles
January 26, 2017
R Thomas has been my go-to restaurant for years. I brought family members there when they visited from Chicago and they spent 15 minutes taking pictures of the parrots. I had my first fish taco there and my friends had to browbeat me to try something else. LOL. RIP Mr. Thomas. You, your staff and those wonderful parrots brought so much joy to my life. My condolences go out to the family.
Kenyanna Hammon
January 26, 2017
My condolences to his family and friends. He will be truly missed. Richard was a wonderful person with a big heart. He was always there for me. He was truly my Guardian Angel and I will always love him. He's in my heart forever. Crystal
D. G.
January 26, 2017
So sorry for your loss. "Happy are those who mourn since they will be comforted."
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