William Mark Thomas III, 65, of Salem, passed away at 5:09 pm on Thursday, October 22, 2020, at Summa/Akron City Hospital following a brief illness.
Bill was born on July 6, 1955 in Salem, son of the late William M. and Goldie (Baker) Thomas Jr.
He grew up in Lisbon and attended Lisbon schools. Bill worked as a laborer and before retiring 10 years ago, was employed for 15 years as a press operator in metal fabrication for the automobile industry.
Bill loved time spent with family. He never missed a family dinner or event, most recently the outdoor wedding of his niece, which was just a few days before his passing. In fact, Bill was always the first to arrive and, most likely, one of the last ones to leave. He loved to travel, enjoyed going for walks, and spending time at the park. Bill was always looking for an opportunity to ride along on any little outings that came his way. He could often be found at McDonald’s shooting the breeze with his friend Kerry while enjoying an iced coffee. He liked to watch TV, enjoyed playing Yahtzee and other board and card games. Every so often you would hear him sing with his sister while his brother played guitar to the songs from their childhood. He enjoyed doing many things, but what made all of these things special and brought him joy was sharing these times with his family. He always had a smile on his face and that smile will live in our hearts forever.
Bill is survived by a daughter, Darlene (Joseph Hartman) Thomas Ingledue of East Liverpool; a son, Mark A. (Angie) Thomas of Kentucky, 2 granddaughters; Shelby Thomas, who lived with him, and Summer-Rayne Thomas. He also is survived by a sister; Cathy (Fred) Brownfield, brother; Richard (Dawn) Thomas, all of Lisbon, along with many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Deborah Kay (Cochrane) Thomas, whom he married Dec. 31, 1977.
Following his wishes, Bill was cremated and there is no service planned.
Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Arbaugh-Pearce-Greenisen & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services in Salem.
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