Raymond K. Thomas

The evening of February 10, 2021, the heavens opened up and the angels escorted their newest friend, Raymond K. Thomas, to his forever home. Ray was born on October 26, 1946 in Gallipolis, Ohio to Ernest (Hook) and Irene Thomas. Ray (Gabby) had two siblings: his older sister, Jan (Nib), and his little brother, Ron (Hot Rod). Ray attended Bradbury Elementary before moving to Vinton County in 1960 with his family. He attended McArthur High School where he played on the basketball team and received his diploma.

Ray worked at The McArthur Supply Co. for many years, Ernie’s Auto Sales for his Dad, construction, and heavy equipment, and was also self-employed, driving his dump truck delivering coal up north. Ray was also a volunteer firefighter for several years with the McArthur Fire Department.

Throughout Ray’s life, he enjoyed many things: fast cars, NASCAR, country music, old western movies, and The Ohio State Buckeyes, just to name a few. Ray grew up the son of a minister and could quote verses any day of the week. He had a smile for everyone he met and would give anything he had to someone in need. Ray lived a simple life without expensive things because material things didn’t make him happy. Happiness to him was delivering donut holes to his grandkids every Sunday morning and swinging with them on their swing sets, gardening at the homes of his daughters and eating a tomato off the vine, leaving fresh produce on the porches around town, buying a heart-shaped box of candy for each daughter and grandchild every Valentine’s Day, giving treats to his favorite four-legged friends, and making his daily rounds to see his daughters. His three girls and grandchildren were the lights of his life, and he had a big soft spot in his heart for his three son-in-laws, John, Dennis, and Dwuane. Ray knew he was dearly loved by them all.

Tami, Kristin, and Natalie are heartbroken by their loss because their Dad was a daily part of their lives. They are also at peace knowing their Dad is healed, and they can hear his distinct laughter from the heavens at being reunited with his parents and his brother, Ron.

Ray leaves behind three daughters: Tami (John) Stewart; Kristin (Dennis) Thacker; and Natalie (Dwuane) Perry, all of McArthur; Five grandchildren: Cody Thomas, Brooke Trainer, Derek (Heidi) Trainer, Lukas Huston, and Khloe Thacker; two great-grandchildren: Kinlee Thomas and McKenna Walker; and two beloved granddogs: Deezel and Chewie. Ray also leaves behind one sister, Jan (George) Gettles of Jackson, Ohio; one niece, Kim Steele Hatley of Hamden, Ohio; and one nephew, Brad Thomas of Albany, Ohio.

A graveside service will be held 11 a.m., Monday, February 15, 2021, in Elk Cemetery, McArthur with Rev. Jim Taylor officiating.  No calling hours will be observed.  Arrangements are by Garrett-Cardaras Funeral Home, 201 W. High St., McArthur.

Please observe all COVID-19 guidelines by wearing a mask and social distancing while in attendance.

Please sign his online guestbook at www.cardaras.com