Walter G. Thomas, Jr.

Walter G. Thomas Jr, 82, of Worcester, MA passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 27 with his beloved family at his side. Walter was a humble man known for his gentle demeanor, generosity, and grace.

He is survived by his four children, Sandra Ellis and her husband Arthur; Brian Thomas; Sharon Thomas and her partner Mohammed Djamshidi; and Denise Thomas, all of Worcester; his adoring granddaughters, Abby Ellis of Soquel, CA and Emily Ellis of Champaign, IL. He is predeceased by his beloved wife of 46 years, Patricia (Mullin) Thomas. Walter is also survived by his brothers Paul and Francis Thomas, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. 

Walter was a man of deep faith and was a devoted member of Our Lady of Mercy Church, serving in many leadership capacities there over the years. Walter cherished his church family and drew so much happiness and comfort there throughout his life. 

A lifelong resident of Worcester’s Grafton Hill neighborhood, he was the son of Walter G. and Genevieve (Moses) Thomas. The family business, Thomas Tire and Battery Service Co., opened in 1937. Alongside his mother, Walter expanded it to a full-service autobody shop, and he was the owner and operator of Thomas Auto Body Inc. in Worcester for nearly 60 years until his retirement in 2013. Walter was a leader in the auto repair industry and served in many leadership and advocacy roles throughout his career. These include serving as President of the Central Mass Auto Body Rebuilders Association and on the boards of the Massachusetts Auto Body Association and the Massachusetts Auto Damage Appraisers Licensing Board, earning many honors and awards in recognition of his accomplishments and contributions. In addition to his service to the auto repair industry, he loved his Grafton Hill neighborhood and dedicated his life to serving his community. He served as the President of the Tom Ash Little League when his children were young and was the founder of the Grafton Hill Business Association, serving as its President for many years. Walter also enjoyed many summers with his Sea Tern friends and family at his home away from home at Moody Beach, Maine.  

Walter was a pillar of the community, regularly imparting wisdom on the lives he touched. He is remembered by many as a mentor. He loved cooking, especially his family’s Lebanese dishes, and shared his food with the people he loved. 

Most of all, Walter loved his family. His best times were spent with them, gathered around a table, sharing stories, laughing, and being in each other’s company. 

Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Wednesday, August 30, from 4 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.  His funeral will be held Thursday, August 31st from the funeral home with a procession beginning at 9:30 to Our Lady of Mercy Church, 341 June Street, where his funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 am.   Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Walter’s name be made to Our Lady of Mercy Church, 341 June St., Worcester, MA 01602.