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BORN
1931
DIED
2024
Billy Thomas Obituary
Billy graduated from Dumas High School in Dumas, TX in 1949. He enlisted in the US Navy in 1950, where he served as both a Boatswain's Mate and Personnel Clerk. He retired from the U.S. Navy after honorably serving his Country for 19 years in 1969 as a Chief Personnel Clerk and decided to settle in his last home port of San Diego.
After his service to his Country, he honed his craft of tile setting, eventually becoming the Vice President of Bedrosians Tile. His artistry in the setting and placement of tile was masterful.
Billy's impact extended far beyond his tile expertise. He embraced every opportunity to help others and make people laugh until shortly before his death. He was known for wearing his various colored faux hair hats on his bald head, spreading laughter and joy to those he met. His son Bill put it best when he said, "No one could say a bad word about him."
Above all, Billy was a loving family man. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Maxine; daughters Debra Peck and Christa; son Gary; stepsons John Stalmer, Bill Stalmer, Dennis Groh, David Groh, Donald Groh; stepdaughter Debbie Parkin; brothers Ronnie, Clifford and Keith; sister Linda; and numerous grand-children, great grand-children, and great great grand-children. He was predeceased by his father William Thomas, mother Thelma Smalz, brother Kenny, and his stepsons Bruce Welsh and Brian Welsh. His family was his cornerstone, and his love and dedication to them were the driving forces behind his life.
In remembering Billy, we honor a long life well-lived, a life characterized by professional excellence, unwavering service to others, dedication to his Country and a deep, abiding love for his family and God. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him and benefit the countless lives he touched. His life was a beacon of what it means to live with purpose and faith.
A celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Clairemont Christian Fellowship, 4570 Mount Herbert Ave, San Diego, CA 92117.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to his Church at Clairemont Christian Fellowship Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Billy Thomas
2 Entries
Mary Sue Thomas
September 4, 2024
Kenneth, Bobby and I really enjoyed our trips to San Diego. Billy was such a gracious host, taking us to the Zoo and to the ocean. Bobby was about 16 and Billy had a huge dog that loved Bobby. Later on, Billy and Maxine came through on a trip and stayed with us. Such wonderful memories. Billy loved pies from a little restaurant in Texaco and loved watermelon from the local fruit stand. He bought lots of both when visiting Grandma Thomas. I really miss those days and those visits and know there was a wonderful Thomas reunion in heaven.
Brittany
September 4, 2024
In Loving Memory of my Great Grandpa. Across five generations, you led with faith and an unwavering love that brought us all closer together.
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