Eugene L. Thomas

Eugene L. "Gene" Thomas, age 58, passed away peacefully at his home on January 30, 2026. He was born in Erie on June 12, 1967, a son of the late Carmen and Stella "Sis" (Graczyk) Thomas.

Eugene was known for his infectious laugh and his deep love for his family. A proud graduate of Strong Vincent High School, Class of 1985, he began learning the art of meat cutting at a young age under the guidance of Danny Savocchio, proprietor of Brown Avenue Food Market. He later worked at Buddy Sausage, where he proudly served as a top butcher for many years, and continued his craft at Tops Markets. Eugene was passionate about his work and formed lasting relationships with his customers.

Eugene had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and especially enjoyed hunting and the beauty of nature. He loved warm weather and spent countless hours tending to his backyard vegetable garden and the beautiful flower beds in front of his home. He was also a devoted Miami Dolphins fan. Eugene was happiest when surrounded by his family, and his many nieces and nephews absolutely adored him.

Well known for his love of Christmas, Eugene took great joy in decorating the entire exterior of his home. Eugene faithfully listened to Italian Hour every Sunday, often dedicating songs to his beloved late wife, Tina. Anyone fortunate enough to spend time with "Geno" quickly fell in love with him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Eugene was a truly compassionate and caring man with a heart of gold.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Tina M. (Yeast) Thomas; and his brothers-in-law, Jeff Koenig, Casimer Yeast, Stan Yeast; sister-in-law, Brenda Horn; and his niece, Jamie Lee Koenig.

Gene is survived by his six brothers and sisters and their spouses, Lisa (Ryan) Coletta of Summit Township, Pa., Rhea (Vinnie) Barzano of Fort Myers, Fl., Carmel Koenig of Estero, Fl., Daniel Tomassi of Erie, Pa., Margaret (Eric) Hardner of Millcreek Township, Pa., and Joseph (Sherri) Thomas of East Springfield, Pa. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Funeral arrangements are private and being handled by the John R. Orlando Funeral Home, 2122 Raspberry Street, Erie PA 16502.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the family in care of the Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.