• Robert E. Thomas

    July 23, 2015

  • Another one of Tom Brokaw’s “Greatest Generation” is gone. Robert “Bob” E. Thomas, 89, of Hot Springs Village passed away on July 23, 2015. Bob was born July 14, 1926 in Weatherford, Texas to Earl Milam Thomas and Louise Mozelle Harrington Thomas.

    A proud, loyal Texan, Bob graduated from Sierra Blanca High School, and promptly enlisted in the US Air Force, serving as a gunner on B-24s and B-29s in the Pacific Theater. His group, the 5th Air Force was one of the first to occupy Japan after surrendering in 1945. He attended Cisco Jr. College and Lamar University, after which he signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates organization and spent several years within their farm clubs, always as a first baseman. Bob’s working career was in insurance and risk management, primarily in the Texas/Louisiana oil patch.

    He and Brenda Harris were married in 1971 and they spent many years being softball “bums” with Bob playing in tournaments throughout the US. His team won the 1999 National Slow Pitch Softball Championship in Chattanooga in the 70+ age bracket. This “career” continued for a few more years until they left Dallas for Hot Springs Village in 2004, where two knee surgeries finally ended his ball playing.

    Bob is survived by his wife of 44 years, Brenda, his daughter Katherine Harmon of Conway and a son, Wes Thomas (Lori) of Racine, WI; two grandsons, two granddaughters and three great-grandchildren. He also was “Dad” to two stepdaughters and “Gramps” to their Children including his special step-grandson, Philip. He is preceded in death by his parents and one grandson.

    At his request, there will be no funeral or memorial.  Memorials may be made to Arkansas Hospice in memory of Bob Thomas in appreciation for their services.

    Arrangements have been entrusted to CedarVale Funeral Home. For online condolences/guestbook visit us at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com\

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  • 10 comments

    Kris Webb

    25 Jul 2015

    Bye Dad, you meant so much to us. Terry and I loved you very much. We are grateful you were in our lives and thank you for being so good to us. Bless your soul, no worries, struggle or pain. Now with God but in our hearts forever. Love, Kikki

    Reply

    Jim & Suzette watson

    25 Jul 2015

    We'll miss you!

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    Katherine (Kitty) Thomas Harmon

    25 Jul 2015

    A part of my heart is missing, but my prayer was answered. He is no longer in pain. I feel he will always be near.

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    Randall & Susie Cox

    27 Jul 2015
    cedarvalefuneralhome.com\

    I have fond memories of Uncle Bob from when I was a child. He was always fun and always laughing at our family get togethers. I know he will be missed by many. My prayers go out to each of his family members.

    Reply

    Jan Kerr

    28 Jul 2015

    Brenda, I have certainly enjoyed knowing you and Bob and sitting with you at the concerts at the Woodlands. I could always tell you two were still in love. I also took care of Bob at the doctor's office several times. Take care, Jan

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    Jerry and Julie Kalick

    29 Jul 2015

    Bob was a good friend and next-door neighbor for six years. We first met him when he was walking his little dog, Maddie. We also had a schnauzer like Maddie and we made instant friends. Bob was a kind and friendly man and the four of us enjoyed many happy hours and dinners together, both at home and at restaurants. He will be greatly missed.

    Reply

    Brynn Roberts

    29 Jul 2015

    Heaven has gained a wonderful man and kind soul. I will miss you Gramps! I have so many precious memories of countless Thanksgivings and Christmases that will always hold a special place in my heart. Love you.

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    Sue Partridge

    30 Jul 2015

    Oh Aunt Brenda - my heart goes out for you. Blessings Sue

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    Wesley Baker

    31 Jul 2015

    Love you Gramps! I will always remember the great times. God Bless!

    Reply

    debi mead

    13 Aug 2015

    What I remember most about Bob was his beautiful white mustache with his proverbial toothpick peeking out from the corner of his mouth. I remember his laugh which was a wide ripppling chuckle. Always the gentleman, he carried bags and opened doors - even when it was more convient to do it youself. Bob - my suragate father - my friend - my mother's lover, you will be sorely missed and thought of often . . . I love you!

    Reply