Richard Neal Thomason

Richard Neal Thomason of Moore, SC passed away on Friday, September 13, 2024 at the age of 66. He was born in Spartanburg, SC on January 19, 1958 to the late Lucille Norton and Horace Milton Thomason. 

A graduate of Dorman High School (Class of 1976), Richard went on to earn his Associates in Photography from Chowan University in 1978. Richard turned his passion for photography into a lifelong career, founding Photo Creations, where he spent over 25 years capturing special moments through portraiture and wedding photography. His artistic eye extended beyond the lens; he was talented at drawing, and his creativity knew no bounds.

Music also played an important role in Richard's life. He always had a song for every occasion, filling his home and the lives of those around him with joy. He was someone you could always count on to come up with an ingenious fix for any problem. Known for his strong character, Richard’s word was his bond; he always kept his promises. He was deeply committed to his faith and his community, always ready to lend a hand or a kind word, and becoming an elder at his church, Legacy.

Richard was a spontaneous spirit, always up for a road trip with his family. Some of his favorite destinations were Gatlinburg and Hilton Head, where he made countless memories with his loved ones. Family was everything to him. Richard was a devoted father to his daughters, modeling a Godly life, which continued into the lives of his granddaughters. He was the light of his granddaughters’ lives and their biggest playmate.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty that will be cherished forever by his family and friends. His memory will live on in every photograph, every road trip, and every melody that reminds us of the vibrant life he led.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Joyce Sands Thomason; daughters, Ashley Thomason Whitt (Roger) of Pauline, SC and Anna Thomason (Thomas Ribas) of Holiday Hills, IL; grandchildren, Clara Whitt and Jessie Whitt; brothers, Keith Thomason (Deb) of Wellford, SC and Tom Thomason (Angela) of Newnan, GA; brother-in-law, Stan Brown of Isle of Palms, SC; and numerous nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Alice Sandra Brown.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held 11:00am on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at Legacy, 3700 South Church Street Ext, Roebuck, SC 29376, conducted by Pastor Manning Strickland. The family will receive friends following the services.

In honor of Richard, memorial contributions may be made to Legacy, 3700 South Church Street Ext, Roebuck, SC 29376.