Robert Ray Thomas

ROBERT R. THOMAS STAUNTON, VA Robert Ray Thomas, 88, of Staunton, VA passed away on Monday, May 20, 2012 at his home. He was born in Princeton, West Virginia on November 30, 1923 and was the devoted son of the late Troy Dow and India (Fizer)Thomas. Mr. Thomas served in the United States Army during World War II. After the war ended, he attended and graduated from Morris Harvey College (now University of Charleston) and subsequently obtained two Master's Degrees. He first taught math and coached football at Robert E. Lee High School in Staunton before moving to Fairfax where he taught and coached football until his retirement. Mr. Thomas had been a long time member of St. John's United Methodist Church in Staunton and was a devoted husband and doting father, grandfather and great grandfather. Surviving are his loving wife, Louise Campbell Thomas, four children, Mary C. Queen and husband Charlie of Shenandoah; Pam Tuben and husband Jerry of Fairfax; David A. Christian and wife Laura of Toano, VA and Robert Ray Thomas, Jr. of Fairfax; fifteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; and a sister Peggy who resides in California. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Jimmy Thomas and Everett Thomas; and three sisters, Georgia Jones, Ruth Anderson and Helen Frye. A graveside service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 24, 2012, in the Thornrose Cemetery at 1041 W. Beverly Street, Staunton, with the Reverend Doctor Patricia Meadows officiating. The family will receive friends at their residence after the graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John's United Methodist Church, 1716 North Augusta Street, Staunton, VA 24401. Henry Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.