Richard "Rick" Thomas

Richard “Rick” Earl Thomas, son of the late William Earl Thomas and Dorothy Marie (Franks) Thomas, was born January 29, 1955, in St. Louis, Missouri. As a young boy, Rick was raised by his grandparents in Arnold, Missouri where he attended school. In 1973, he entered the United States Army and served his country faithfully for seven years until his honorable discharge. For his faithful service, he had attained the rank of Sergeant and earned several awards and commendations. On November 12, 1977, in Arnold, Missouri, Rick was united in marriage to Lillian Kay Miller. They shared over 46 years of marriage together and were blessed with two sons: Brian and Jason. In their early married years, Rick and Lillian moved to Fenton, Missouri where their sons were born and later moved to Richland, Missouri where they remained. After being discharged from the military, Rick worked as a truck driver, mechanic, welder, and drove a truck for Wal-Mart before retiring on July 29, 2021. After his retirement, he was able to do more of the things that he enjoyed. Rick loved to be outdoors. You could find him either hunting, fishing, shooting his guns, target shooting with the kids and grandkids, or working on tractors and cars. You hardly ever found him indoors…he just enjoyed being outdoors in God’s creation. Rick’s family was very important to him and treasured all the time that he could spend with them, especially the grandkids. He liked to spend time at the casino with his family and dear friends. Rick made an important decision in his life. He made a profession of faith and was baptized. He became a member of First Baptist Church of Richland. Rick went home to be with his Lord on Thursday, February 29, 2024, in his home surrounded by his family having attained the age of 69 years. He will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered by all those that knew and loved him. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife: Lillian Thomas of the home; two sons: Brian Thomas (Ashley) of Richland, MO and Jason Thomas (Crystal) of St. Clair, MO; five grandchildren: Jaden Thomas, Alyssa Thomas, and Jace Thomas, all of Richland, MO, and Easton Thomas and Tristan Thomas, both of St. Clair, MO; two sisters: Patty Fears of St. Louis, MO and Diane; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Don Miller (Karen) of Warrenton, MO, Marilyn & Tommy Morrison of Lebanon, MO, Raymond Miller (B.J.) of Marrietta, GA, Jeannie Ashline of Richland, MO, and David Miller (Vickie) of Richland, MO; aunt: Mary Ann Fox of St. Louis, MO; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Rick was preceded in death by his parents William and Dorothy Thomas of St. Louis, MO; grandparents, Henry and Mary Frank of Arnold, MO; two uncles: Junior and Jack Frank of Arnold, MO; mother-in-law: Mary Jane Miller-Sigler and father-in-law: Donald Owen Miller, Sr.; two brothers-in-law: Johnny Miller of Richland, MO, and John Ashline of Briggsville, WI. Even though he is gone from our sight, Rick’s legacy of love and commitment to God, his family, and his country, will live on in our hearts forever. Services were held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 5, 2024 in the Memorial Chapel of Richland with Pastor Matt Brady officiating. A loving tribute by grandson, Jaden Thomas was shared. The songs “Go Rest High on that Mountain” – Vince Gill, “Grandpa” – Grace Hand, and “I’ve Been Everywhere” – Johnny Cash were played. Serving as escorts were Brian Thomas, Jason Thomas, Jaden Thomas, Bill Hooper, Gary Miller, Jeff Miller, Nick Hammack, Patrick Bowling, Samuel Miller, and Rick Lacey. Honorary Escorts included David Miller, Don Miller, Raymond Miller, Tommy Morrison, Alyssa Thomas, Jace Thomas, Easton Thomas, and Tristan Thomas. Military Honors were provided by the Missouri Honors Team. Burial followed in the Centerpoint Cemetery, Richland, MO. Services were under the care and direction of Memorial Chapel of Richland. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Rick Thomas and may be left at Memorial Chapel of Richland. Online condolences can be sent at www.memorialchapelsandcrematory.com.

Richard "Rick" Thomas

January 29, 1955 - February 29, 2024