Philip James Thomas

Mr Thomas was my art teacher at Annie B Jamieson elementary. He taught us that there are hundreds of shades of green. He said: "look out there at the trees, how many shades of green to you see?" To this day, I do this, thanks to Mr Thomas for bringing it to my attention. I'll always remember that. I also remember the song he wrote about a strike at the Monashee range. I know the tune and words like it was last week that he taught us the song, now 40+ years later.
I too lost my father recently. My thoughts go out to Phil's family at this time.

To Theresa: I have only warm memories of your father from the time we were on staff at Van Horne to when he sang me one of his songs at the Centre just two months ago, when I also saw you.
My sincere condolences.

Phil was a colleague and a friend, who made the day somehow more interesting and more alive than one thought it was - even it was already interesting and alive.

Although I only met Phil the once, I found him greatly encouraging in my own fight with breast cancer.
I have the pleasure of being a friend of his daughter.I wish all the best of courage and strength for the family at this time. My heart is with you all...Be brave

Phil Thomas was my Grade 6 teacher at David Livingstone school in Vancouver back in the 1950's. I was one of the lucky ones who got to experience that wonderful "art" room. I have really great memories of this amazing teacher. A few years ago I contacted him when the article appeared in the Vancouver Sun regarding his breast cancer. We had a couple of interesting conversations and at that time, I had hoped that he would be able to visit my Grade 6 classroom in Burnaby, but sadly that never came to pass. I send condolences to the Thomas family.