United States Navy Veteran Was Former Tool and Die Maker and Restauranteur

The following is an obituary courtesy of Tewksbury Funeral Home.

Richard L. Thomas, age 85, a Veteran, retired Tool and Die Maker, and former Restaurateur, died peacefully early Monday morning, June 23, at Blaire House of Tewksbury, following a lengthy illness. He was the beloved husband of Priscilla B. (Burney) Thomas, with whom he had celebrated a 59th wedding anniversary this past February 26th.

Richard was born in Quincy, MA, on June 8, 1929, a son of the late Walter and Marie (Purdy) Thomas. He was raised in Hanson, and lived in Halifax, before moving to Waterview Village in Carver, sixteen years ago. He moved to Tewksbury in 2012 due to failing health.

After graduating Bristol County Agricultural School in Dighton, he enlisted into the U.S. Navy, where he served most of his tour of duty in Key West, Florida. Upon honorable discharge, he opened the Depot Deli and later, the Sandwich Shop in North Situate during the 1950’s. He became a Tool and Die Maker, beginning his career at his father’s firm, Thomas Tool and Die in Hanson. He also worked at United Shoe Machine, in Whitman, and Sigma Instruments in Braintree, prior to retirement.

Richard loved to play billiards and pool, was an avid gardener, an accomplished cook and baker, and in his years at Waterview Village, enjoyed many acting roles in the annual Village plays.

Besides his wife, he leaves a daughter and son-in-law, Linda S. Thomas and Christopher Flaherty of Tewksbury; two beloved granddaughters, Helen Sofia Flaherty and Margaret Priscilla “Maggie” Flaherty; several nieces and nephews; and was predeceased by his brothers, Walter “Pinky” Thomas, and Stanley Thomas.

At his request private services will be held at the Massachusetts National Cemetery at Cape Cod in Bourne. Memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, 480 Pleasant St., Watertown, MA 02472-2407, are welcome.