Michael Brian Thomas

Michael Brian Thomas, 67, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away on March 8, 2026. Born on May 17, 1958, in Albany, Georgia, Michael lived a life defined by creativity, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved.

Michael earned his Bachelor's degree in Architecture with a minor in Business, a foundation that spoke to his natural eye for design and his sharp sense of enterprise. He began his professional career at Intel, but it was his decision to attend floral design school that truly set the course of his life. There, he discovered his passion and his niche, a calling that combined artistry with the joy of bringing beauty into the lives of others. Following graduation, Michael established a floral design, catering, and event planning business in Washington State, which he built and operated alongside his late partner, Ed Gomez.

Michael and Ed shared 27 remarkable years together, a partnership built on a strong foundation of friendship, honor, and devotion. Though not a fairy tale, their life together was something perhaps more meaningful: a testament to loyalty and enduring love. In their later years together, Michael became Ed's devoted caregiver after Ed tragically lost his sight and became ill. This experience deepened Michael's commitment to service and led him to become deeply involved with the League for the Blind and Disabled, where he volunteered regularly, driving members to appointments and events on a weekly basis.

Michael was strong willed yet profoundly compassionate, loving and passionate about life in all its variety. He was always direct in his interactions; you never had to wonder where you stood with him. Some might have called him blunt, but beneath that fortress of fortified iron and stone was a deeply genuine person with fears and vulnerabilities, someone who wore his heart on his sleeve. He loved to laugh and had a gift for making the world laugh along with him. Whether being goofy, silly, or heartfelt, everything Michael did came from a place of pure good intention and love.

An extremely hard worker who stood firmly by his values and principles, Michael possessed a wonderful sense of adventure and a creative spirit that touched everything around him. He had an exceptional eye for color and design, loved decorating, and was an excellent cook and host who delighted in experimenting with recipes and cuisines from cultures around the world. He was never afraid to try something new. He loved swimming and sunbathing in the warm summer months, and he found joy in listening to music and dancing. He was passionate about equality, fairness, and justice, and he always made himself available to help friends and strangers alike.

Michael is survived by his brothers, Jeffery Lynn Thomas and R. Lee Merritt; his nephews, David L. Merritt and Walter W. Merritt Jr.; his nieces, Denise M. Large and Kimberly M. Orr; and his cherished friends, Nada O'Neal, Dane Wheeler, Eddie Austin, Riley Fotheringham, and Patrick Edwards. He was preceded in death by his beloved partner, Ed Gomez.

In a nutshell, Michael was the best brother, friend, partner, and person anyone could have the privilege to know. May he find peace and rest in the Grace of God, reunited with those who went before him, his spirit forever a light to all who were blessed to know his warmth, his laughter, and his love.

A memorial service will be held on April 18th at Plymouth Congregational UCC in Fort Wayne. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m. A reception will be held afterward. Gifts in memory are welcome to Plymouth Congregational UCC.