Gary Richard Thomas' Obituary
Gary Richard Thomas, age 89, of Centerville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the Putnam County Care Center in Unionville, Missouri, surrounded by the love of his family.
Gary was born on June 14, 1936, the fourth child of Samuel "Sam" Thomas and Mary Magdalene (Grenko) Thomas. He grew up in Centerville and graduated with the Class of 1954 from Centerville High School. Not long after, he met the love of his life, Phyllis Jordan Gardner. The two were united in marriage on October 2, 1955, beginning a devoted partnership that would span 70 years. Together, Gary and Phyllis built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. They were blessed with four children: Jeffrey Neal, John Charles, James Leroy, and Jennifer Lynn, who remained a source of pride and joy throughout his life.
Gary began his working years with Gardner Gas, contributing to his wife's family business, before continuing his career at Union Carbide, where he remained until his retirement. Though he enjoyed some travel with Phyllis over the years, he often expressed a wish that he could have seen more of the world.
A man of deep and abiding faith, Gary was an active member of the Grace Tabernacle Baptist Church on North Park, where he taught classes for young married couples. He found great purpose in sharing his beliefs, speaking openly about Christ, and offering guidance and encouragement to others. His kindness, willingness to help, and steady presence left a lasting impression on those who knew him. Gary will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his love for his family, and the quiet, meaningful way he lived his life-always ready to lend a hand, share a word of encouragement, or speak of the hope that guided him.
Left to honor Gary's memory are his sister, Beverly Rehmeier of Omaha; his brother, Michael Thomas of Arizona; his children, Jeffrey (Peggy) Thomas, John (Teresa) Thomas, Jim (Robin) Thomas, and Jennifer (Jeff) Wakefield; eight grandchildren, Grant, Adam, Alexander, Daniel, Paul, Molly, Andrew, and Lauryn; as well as his cherished great-grandchildren, numerous extended family and friends.
Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Phyllis; his parents, Sam and Mary Thomas; his siblings, Charles Thomas and Genevieve "Babe" Flowers; and brothers-in-law, Casey Flowers and Frank Rehmeier.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville, with the family greeting friends from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Funeral services will take place at 11:00AM, Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville with Pastor Adam Standley officiating. Burial will follow the service at Haines Cemetery, north of Centerville. Memorial checks may be written to "Gary Thomas" to be used towards activities for the residents and staff at Putnam County Care Center, and mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Thomas Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at https://www.thomasfh.com or https://www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
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