John Robert Thomas

John Robert Thomas, "Bob", passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his family and their abundant love on Saturday, March 11, 2023. The family would like to express their gratitude to Hospice of the Piedmont for their support. 

Bob was born September 2, 1949 in Lynchburg, Virginia and was the first child of Richard and Norma Jean Thomas who preceded him in death. 

Bob is survived by his loving wife Kathryn Haney Thomas, as well as their five children and spouses: Sean Thomas, Emily Ellis and husband Wes, Daniel Thomas and wife Sara, Elizabeth Rees and husband Zach Frankland, Abraham Thomas and wife Libby White. In addition, Bob is survived by ten grandchildren: Hannah Rees, Sophia Frankland, June Thomas, Griffin Ellis, Lucy Gochenour, Robert Thomas, Lincoln Ellis, Eleanor Ellis, Tristan Thomas, and Galileo Thomas, as well as his 3 siblings Pam Davis, Hubert Thomas, Ron and wife Gail Thomas, and nieces, Stacy Ray, Nicole Harrigan and nephew, Jacob Thomas. A loving gratitude is extended to all those that God placed in the Thomas home as well as their hearts. 

Bob graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry and Wildlife. He went on to devote 30 years with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services as an ornithologist. He was a dedicated servant of  Jesus Christ and the body of Christ in several small rural parishes of The Episcopal Diocese of Virginia for over 40 years. 

Bob never knew a stranger and never knew someone that Jesus did not love. He was a loving teacher to all those he came across, with a passion for sharing the love of God’s creation. He was a steward of the land with a deep respect for all creatures, great and small. He made his last contribution to scientific education with the gift of his body to the Anatomical Gift Program.  

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 18th at 11:00 am at Good Shepherd of the Hills Episcopal Church in Free Union, Virginia. The Rt. Reverend Susan Goff will be officiating assisted by The Reverends Anne West, Gary Barker, and Brad Jackson. The Ven. Holly Hanback and Rev. Dcn. Emmetri Beane will also assist.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Shrine Mont or The Chesapeake Bay Foundation in memory of Bob. 

McDaniel Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.