John F. Thomas Sr., of Gibbstown, passed away April 14, 2010, while visiting with his daughter in King of Prussia. Born in the Kennsington section of Philadelphia, his family moved to Billingsport around 1933, and he often spoke of his hard but joyous early life as a "River Rat". He was a 1938 Paulsboro graduate.

John was a Sergeant in the US Army Air Corp, serving 1942-1945. He served in the 557th Bomb Squadron, 387th Bomb Group, stationed in England and later France. He spoke in reverence of his time during the War, the friends he made and lost, places he visited, always leaving out the hardship to keep everyone interested in his stories. He had remained in correspondence through the 557th Bomb Squadron Assoc., at times travelling with his wife to reunions around the country.

He is the beloved father of John Jr. (Denise), Ted (Shelly), Deborah (Tony) McLendon, Annette Voltz, Fred and fiancee Amy, 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Predeceased by his wife Anne Marie (nee Grasso), they were married for 55 years. Together they loved sightseeing, travelling, visiting with old friends and spending their winters in Lake Worth Florida.

John loved the outdoors, hiking, canoeing and deer hunting in the Pine Barrens. He will be missed by all those who loved him, especially on the days you are having difficulty with a crossword or cryptogram.

A Memorial in John's memory will be held on Thursday 10:00-11:00AM at the Landolfi Funeral Home of Paulsboro, 300 W. Broad St., followed by services at 11:00AM. Interment Eglington Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the charity of one's choice. To share condolences www.landolfifuneralhome.com