Obituary of Joseph G. Thomas

Joseph G. Thomas Jr. of Woodbourne, a former math teacher with the Monticello Central Schools, died Saturday, June 10, 2017 at the Middletown Park Manor. He was 85. The son of the late Joseph G. Thomas Sr. and Mary Michael Thomas, he was born August 19, 1931 in Pittsfield, Mass. Mr. Thomas was the recipient of two Masters Degrees from St. Leo's University in Jacksonville, Florida, one being in Engineering, the other in Education. He worked as an Engineer at General Electric in Pittsfield, Massachusetts for several years before beginning a career in Teaching which spanned throughout his life time. Mr. Thomas was very active in the Catholic Church all of his life and at one point, was studying for the priesthood before deciding to marry and have children. Mr. Thomas was an avid outdoorsman, chess player and musician, playing the piano, organ, guitar and accordion throughout his lifetime in many venues. Survivors include his two sons: Dennis Thomas (Vivian) of Middletown and James Thomas of San Diego, CA; two daughters: Karen Fitzpatrick (Seamus) of Chesapeake, VA and Janet Gunzburg (Gregg) of Manhasset, NY; a brother: Frank Thomas & his wife Gloria of Pittsfield, MA; nine grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother William Thomas. His funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, June 20 at 11am at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, 6317 Route 42 in Woodbourne with Fr. John Lynch officiating. Family & friends are also invited to gather on Tuesday evening from 6-9pm at the VanInwegen-Kenny Funeral Home, 111 Sullivan Street in Wurtsboro. Memorial contributions can be made to the charity of one's choice. Arrangements are under the direction of the VanInwegen-Kenny, Inc. Funeral Home of Wurtsboro. For additional information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.kennyfuneralhome.com