William Gordon Thomas

June 5, 1931 - December 24, 2025 William (Bill) Thomas left the stage on December 24, 2025. A "rascal with a cause," he was selfless and tireless in helping others. Young "Willy" met the love of his life, Diane Ruth Thomas, in third grade. They both graduated from Hollywood High School in 1949 and matriculated at Occidental College. Married in 1951, Bill served in the U.S. Navy until 1954. Following his service, he earned bachelor's and master's degrees in Theater Arts at UCLA while working for Desilu Studios. After completing his Doctorate in Education at UCLA, Bill devoted his career to higher education as an effective and innovative administrator. He served as Director of the UCLA Placement Center, Dean of Experimental Education at UCLA, and Dean of Students at San Fernando Valley State College (now California State University, Northridge). He later became Chancellor of Johnston College, then Director of New Dimensions for the Los Angeles Community College System and concluded his career teaching English and Literature at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College and Saddleback College.
After moving to San Clemente in 1996, Bill and Diane became deeply engaged members of the community. As Chair of the city's Beaches, Parks, and Recreation Commission, Bill helped establish the Foundation for Beaches, Parks, and Recreation, which became a model for similar foundations throughout California. He was named San Clemente Citizen of the Year in 2007 and Volunteer of the Year the following year. Bill loved traveling, meeting new people, and cracking Dad jokes. He enthusiastically supported the lives, careers, and community service of his four sons and their spouses-Gregory (Mary), Mark (Meghan), Scott (Chayree), and Christopher (Amanda)-and his ten grandchildren: Jennifer (Noah), Ian (Clarke), Erin, Zander, Summer, River, Christopher, Abby, Roscoe, and Shayla. Bill is also survived by his sister, Patricia Felix.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Foundation described above at www.friendsofsanclemente.org. Condolences or questions, billthomasinmem@gmail.com. An expanded obituary is available on Legacy.com.