Roy Russell Thomas Sr.

Roy Russell Thomas Sr., 90, of Danville, IL, departed to be with the Lord on July 16, 2015, leaving loving memories to cherish for his Family. Roy was born in Catlin, IL, April 14, 1925, to Laura Hansborough and Sam Thomas, both preceding him in death. Roy married Margaret Virginia Thomas on October 4, 1952, and she survives. They were blessed with 63 years of marriage and a loving family. Roy and Margaret had seven children, one being, Kathy Thomas, who preceded Roy in death. His surviving children are Marsha (Larry) Thomas-Griest, Roy (Paula) Thomas Jr., Randy (Darla) Thomas, Betsy (Jack) Hill, Melissa Thomas and Christopher (Tessa) Thomas. They also have ten grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren. Roy had a brother, Wilbur "Peanut" Thomas, who also preceded him in death. Roy also loved and cared for his special friends, Ed & Jodi Barney. Roy currently served as chairman of the Retirees Automaker UAW Local 579. He worked at the General Motors Tilton Foundry for 30 years, retiring in 1977. His passion and best loved work at the Foundry was serving as Union Committeeman in which he made many personal friends. He loved to help people and enjoyed people very much. He also served as Secretary of the United Coal Miners at the young age of 17. Roy also served as Precinct Committeeman for his precinct. Roy also served his country by enlisting into the US Navy in 1943 and boarded the USS Remey in WWII. He was involved in thirteen evasions with the Japanese at this time. This is where Roy got his love for the water and became an avid commercial net fisherman. Besides spending time with his family, or making new friends at the Retirees Bingo, Roy had a great passion for fishing. He loved animals and rarely was the household without one. He enjoyed training horses and enjoyed helping his children ride and show when they were younger. Going to Kingman & Rockville to visit his Amish friends were very special to him. He enjoyed carpentry and masonry. He also enjoyed teaching the trade. Roy also was a big Chicago Cubs and Fighting Illini fan. A celebration of Roy's life will be held at 12:00pm, Monday, July 20, 2015 at the UAW 579 Union Hall, 1009 Tilton Road, Tilton, with Visitation being held from 10am-12pm prior to his service at the UAW. He will be laid to rest in Danville National Cemetery with Military Honors conducted by the Westville American Legion Post #51. Memorial donations may be given in his name to UAW Local 579 Retirees Chapter. Please join his family in sharing memories, photos, & videos through his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Visitation Jul 20, 2015 Monday, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM UAW Local 579 Union Hall 1009 Tilton Road Tilton, IL 61833 Service Jul 20, 2015 Monday, 12:00 PM UAW Local 579 Union Hall 1009 Tilton Road Tilton, IL 61833 Final Resting Place Danville National Cemetery 1900 E. Main Street Danville, Illinois 61832