Richard James Thomas

Richard J. Thomas, 80, a lifelong resident of Blakely, died on Saturday evening at Allied Services Hospice Center with his family by his side. His wife of 54 years is Babe Kohut Thomas. 

Born in Blakely, he was the son of the late Clement and Elizabeth Calvert Thomas. He was a 1960 graduate of Blakely High School and was the co-owner of a plumbing business. Richard was also a U.S. Army veteran. 

Richard loved golfing and was a former member of the Blakely Legion Golf League. He was also an avid walker and enjoyed traveling. Richard’s greatest joy was his grandchildren. You could find Richard sitting in the first row of every Valley View basketball game cheering them on.

He is survived by son, Jeffrey “J.J.” and wife Tricia Thomas of Eynon; a daughter Lori and husband John Kelley of Peckville; three grandchildren: Quinn Elizabeth Kelley, Connor John Kelley, and Etta Elizabeth Thomas as well as several nieces and nephews, including Rebekah Jarus who held a special place in his heart.

He was also preceded in death by two sisters: Beverly Warner and Betty Lou Hughes; a brother, George “Fritz” Thomas; and a nephew, Dr. Jeffrey Warner. 

The family wishes to thank the incredible doctors and nurses at Allied Hospice for their care, compassion, and support throughout Richard’s stay.

A Blessing Service will be held on Thursday at 6PM at the Hudak-O’Shea Funeral Home, 115 Garfield Avenue, Olyphant. Rev. Scott P. Sterowski of Holy Cross Parish, Olyphant will officiate. 

Friends may call on Thursday from 4 to 6PM at the funeral home.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Allied Services Foundation, Scranton Hospice Center, 100 Abington Executive Park, Clarks Summit, PA, 18411. 

For directions or online condolences, please visit www.hudak-osheafuneralhome.com.