Charles S. Thomas, III

Charles S. Thomas, III, a devoted husband, loving father, esteemed veteran, and cherished member of his community, passed away on March 6, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 16, 1948, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, to the late Elva (Mott) and Charles Thomas Jr., and was the eldest of seven siblings.

Following his high school graduation, Charlie served his country in the Vietnam War. A dedicated patriot, he bravely served 2 tours of combat duty between 1968 - 1970. After the war, he enlisted in the Army Reserves for over 30 years, where he was deployed to Operation Desert Storm in 1990. Charlie retired from the U.S. Army in 2008 with the rank of Sergeant First Class E7.

In 1971 Charlie settled in Waltham, Massachusetts and married his first wife, Helen David where they raised two children, Jason and Marissa. In 1993, he found love again and married Mary “Charley” Harrell. He had a successful career at Raytheon as a spot welder, spanning over four decades until his retirement in 2013. Soon after his retirement Charlie relocated to Delray Beach, Florida with his beloved wife.

He loved watching the Celtics, Bruins, Patriots, and Red Sox. He was a true New England fan. Charlie’s love for sports kept him active. He had a passion for tennis, playing daily with friends and competing in the community tennis league. He also enjoyed bocce ball and bowling. At home he enjoyed playing backgammon and cribbage. When he wasn’t playing sports, he could be found watching one of his favorite crime/drama series or New England sport teams on television.

In his downtime, he also enjoyed spending quality time with his faithful companion, his dog, Chester and listening to jazz on his lanai.

He leaves his devoted wife of 30 years, Mary “Charley” Harrell, his children Jason (Jennifer) Thomas of Waltham, MA, Marissa Thomas (Kenny Grant) of Billerica, MA, stepdaughter Melissa Menton of Malibu, CA, and grandchildren Zachary Sheridan, Ryland, and Ava Thomas, as well as step-grandson Graydon Menton. Additionally, he is survived by his siblings Lawrence “Larry” and Elva “Ben” Thomas of New Jersey, along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Elva (Mott) and Charles Thomas Jr., as well as his siblings Wilbur “Chinkum,” Kevin, Kenny, and D’bra Thomas all from Atlantic City, NJ.

Charlie was a true gentleman, humble and kind. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his passions. He leaves behind a legacy of love, honor, and resilience that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Charlie’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Family and friends will celebrate Charlie’s life by gathering for calling hours at The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Saturday, April 6th 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. followed by a prayer service at 12:00 p.m.  Burial will be private at a later date. 

To view a live broadcast (and recording) of the funeral service please visit my.gather.app/remember/charles-thomas-iii

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to American Diabetes Association or Wounded Warrior Project.