Ronald Oliver Thomas Sr.

Life Reflections

Ronald Thomas passed from this earthly realm on August 8, 2022.  His moment of living ad learning began on August 15, 1960.  He was the second child born to Leroy and Janice Thomas.  Preceding him in death was his mother, Janice; brother, Leroy; and his maternal; and paternal grandparents.

Ronald (Ronnie) accepted Christ at an early age.  Ronnie was educated in the Kansas City Public School System.  He attended Abbott Elementary, Northwest Junior High, and Wyandotte High School.  After graduation, in 1978 he joined the United States Army where he served his Country for 8 years.

Ronnie married the love of his life, Tonoa in 1990, and they have been married for 31 years.  The two of them often reflected on his persistent pursuit of Tonoa that won her heart.  Together they overcame the hardships and challenges they encountered with a strong commitment to love.  That love was extended to the family they shared.

Ronnie was a hard worker.  In addition, to working for companies Owens and Corning, Associated Wholesale Grocers, and Harley Davidson he explored entrepreneurship.  Ronnie and Tonoa started a commercial painting company “Shades of Paint.”  Ronnie was also called upon many times to complete odd contracting jobs in homes.  It was this that inspired him to return to school at KCK Community College where he received certification in Maintenance, Plumbing and Heating and Cooling.  One of his proudest accomplishments was his employment with the Kansas City Kansas School District.  At the time of his death Ronnie was head custodian at Carl Bruce Junior High School.

Ronnie’s character could be defined in and by his giving nature.  He was a “giver”.  When anyone, family friend or foe shared a need or requested assistance, Ronnie would find a way to help, and it didn’t matter whether he was experiencing lack or plenty.

Ronnie leaves to cherish his memory, his loving and committed wife Tonoa; sons, Ronnie Jr., Laron, and Seth; daughters, Tia, and Jordan; sisters, Shelley (Eric), and Ashley Thomas; stepfather, James Banks; grandchildren, Laron Jr., Laliyah, Jalia, Jacion, Javion, Jahmeer, Jerry, and Zion.  He leaves special nieces and nephew, Ericka and Eric Coulter, and Erin Collins who he was a father to for most of her life.  He also leaves a host of extended family, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many, many friends.

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