George Thomas

THOMAS, GEORGE L.A long time resident of Albuquerque, entered into rest after a long battle with Alzheimer's, on July 7, 2012. George was born on January 10, 1929 in Batesville, AR to the union of George W. and Ruth L. Thomas. His family moved to Albuquerque in the late 1940's. He attended Bethany Nazarene University and The University of New Mexico. After gaining his degree he served his country during the Korean Conflict as a member of the United States Army, later returning to Albuquerque where he met and married Reta M. Wilson. Both he and Reta had long careers teaching in the Albuquerque Public Schools. George taught Language Arts at Jackson, McKinley, and Kennedy Middle Schools. During his life he served his church in many important capacities. He also enjoyed outdoor activities including gardening, fishing and hunting. He found great joy in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. George is survived by his wife of 55 years, Reta; sons, Greg Thomas and wife Martha, of Gilbert, AZ, and Stan Thomas and wife Carrie, of Allen, TX; grandchildren, Gavin, Dane, Chase, Skyler, Stephanie, and Keller; brothers, Bob Thomas and wife Cathy and Tony Thomas and wife Davedda; sisters, Mary Johnson and Phyllis Mercier and husband Tom and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his son, Jeff Thomas; his parents, and his brother, David Thomas. Friends may visit French - Wyoming Chapel on Monday, July 9, 2012 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 10, 2012 at Heights First Church of the Nazarene, 8401 Paseo Del Norte NE, 87122 with burial to follow at Sunset Memorial Park. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made in the name of George L. Thomas to Heights First Church of the Nazarene.