Mr. William Leon Thomas Jr's Obituary
The passing of a legend.
William Leon Thomas Jr. affectionately known as B.L.T peacefully passed away at the age of 87 on the 19th day of July in this year 2023. William (Bill) left behind his loving wife of 43 years, Theresa Emily Thomas, his two amazing Children, Joell Denise Thomas, and Eric Clayton Thomas, four grandchildren, Athena, Taylor, Eric and Amber and four great grandchildren Angel, Alora, William and Charlotte. Bill is preceded in death by his parents Willaim Leon Thomas Sr. and Lillian Thomas and his first wife of 24 years Joanne Louise Thomas.
Bill was born August 21, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois. He joined the United States Navy on November 2, 1954, at the age of 19 where he was a hospital medical corpsman serving alongside United States Marines in the wars of Vietnam and Korea, where he earned a Bronze star for meritorious and heroic actions in a combat zone. He served honorably for over two decades retiring from the Navy at Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego as a bio-medical engineer/x-ray technician. He continued employment as a bio-medical engineer working at the VA hospital in La Jolla, Ca. as an X-ray technician. In his spare time, he received a master’s degree in counseling for addiction to drugs and alcohol. Once he retired again from civil service, he worked at Mission Federal Credit Union.
Bill fell in love for a second time, and this was a love story for the ages. Bill and Theresa meet at a bowling alley where it was instant love and as they say the rest is history. They were married on February 2, 1980. They had a mutual love for their San Diego “Super” Chargers, bowling, run marathons, and volunteering at the House of Italy in Balboa Park. All the while giving their best girl, Stella the love pup, lots of cuddles and love. Their love for each other is truly unfailing.
Bill had a passion for technology and was always video tapping birthday parties or sporting events and always had the latest high-tech gadgets for movies and music. Bill was constantly thirsting for knowledge, studying foreign languages, reading books, and learning to play the guitar. He loved music, dancing, and movies. He also enjoyed fitness and was an advocate for working out and health. He loved to help and encourage others and was always willing to give his time and go the extra mile for someone in need.
William Leon Thomas Jr. was an extraordinary man with the kindest heart. He truly was an angel on earth. He will be missed beyond measure.
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