Ross Thomas

1928 - 2021

GOMER — Ross Elwood Thomas passed away on Thursday, Dec. 2, 2021, at The Meadows of Kalida at the age of 93. He was born at home, on June 14, 1928, to Arthur B. and Leora (Ross) Thomas who preceded him in death. He lived all of his life on the family farm. He married Joan Lloyd on May 24, 1951 in Gomer. They celebrated 70 years of marriage this year.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joan; three children, Donald (Alesia) Thomas of Tucson, AZ, Marty (Deb) Thomas of Elida and Pat (Russell) Sharrits of Columbus Grove; five grandchildren, Michelle Thomas of Elida, Russell (Stephanie) Thomas of Tucson, AZ, Beth (Joe) Spain of Akron, Chris (Sarah) Thomas of Plain City, and Jeff (Melissa) Thomas of Elida; two step-grandchildren, Scott Sharrits of Lima and Amie Sharrits of Raleigh, NC; 12 great-grandchildren and one step-great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Arbert Thomas.

Ross was a life-long farmer. He was employed with Ohio Power (AEP) for over 22 years. He was an Army veteran during the Korean Conflict where he served in the Panama Canal Zone. He was a member of the Gomer Congregational Church, Gomer. He sang in and also directed the church choir. He was the lead singer with the Townsmen Quartet and later known as the Townsmen. He enjoyed singing and sang the Welsh National Anthem at the Annual Gymanfa Ganu in Gomer for almost 50 years. He enjoyed walks in his woods, fishing and telling funny stories.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 7, 2021, at Gomer Congregational Church. Burial will follow in Pike Run Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 6, 2021, at Harter & Schier Funeral Home and one hour prior to service at Gomer Congregational Church.

Memorial contributions can be made to Gomer Congregational Church Choir or to Bridge Hospice. The family would like to express their appreciation to the nurses and aides that took care of their father during his stay at The Meadows.