John "Sonny" Thomas

John A. “Sonny” Thomas, 94 a lifelong Shrewsbury resident and business owner, passed away at home surrounded by the ones he loved on December 24, 2020.  He joins in heaven the “love of his Life” and best friend, Barbara J. (O’Rourke) Thomas, among others.

Sonny was born in Worcester, March 31, 1926, one of seven children of Walter G. and Rose E. (Harpie) Thomas.  At the age of 18, Sonny, the U.S. Army during World War II, serving proudly in Europe, taking part in major battles, such as D-Day and Battle of the Bulge. He earned the Bronze Star and Purple Heart Medals.  Shortly after discharge from service he returned home and married Barbara J. O’Rourke and began a 74-year life of love, family, and faith raising their family until Barbara passed away shortly over a year ago on November 19, 2019.  

Sonny and his father were founders of “Thomas’ Garage” which later became “Thomas Auto Parts” which Sonny ran with his brother Tony until he retired. 

Sonny is survived by his devoted four daughters, Rosemary Dunlevy and her husband James, Joann Green and her predeceased husband Jeff, Barbara Govoni, and her predeceased husband Don, MaryEllen O’Loughlin and her husband Steven;  A brother, Joseph A. “Tony” Thomas, and his wife Nancy; Three sisters, Theresa and her husband Willis Haire, Mary and her husband Wilfred Daniels, and Eva Dubuque; a sister-in-law Beverly Anthony; many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.   Sonny was the proudest of his ten grandchildren and 18 Great Grandchildren.     In addition to his wife Barbara and parents, Sonny’s sisters, Ann Paquette, and Rita Najarian also predeceased him.

Sonny was a life-long member of Adelphi Counsel, Knights of Columbus, the Victor R. Quaranta American Legion Post and Charles Murphy 10278 Post, Veteran of Foreign Wars.

Sonny along with his wife were devoted to raising their children. They took pride in their 10 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren and were the joy of their lives. Having them near them for Holidays, special occasions and birthdays were life’s special moments and joys. He showed us what sacrifices had to be made and did them because he loved his family so fiercely. We admired his strength, bravery and his determination to keep on going. Sonny came from a generation of strong of heart and will, “The Greatest Generation” . 

The family would like to extend their appreciation to Sonny’s care givers, the Veterans Administration, Nurse Pat and staff; and a special thanks to Sandy, Liz, Kerrin and his to caretakers Cathy and Erin. We would also like thank The UMASS Hospital and staff for his excellent care.

Sonny’s funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, December 30^th, 2020 at 12:30 pm in St. Anne’s Church, 130 Boston Turnpike Rd. COVID restrictions, including masks and social distancing in church will be observed.  Entombment with Military honors, next to his wife Barbara will follow in Notre Dame Mausoleum.  Calling hours are private.  In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in his name can be made to St Anne’s Human Services, 130 Boston Turnpike Rd, 01545.   THE MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, is honored to assist the family with arrangements.   To view the services online, please go to www.mercadantefuneral.com/liveservices.