Thurman R. (Tom) Thomas, 81, went to the arms of his loving Savior, Jesus Christ, on July 19, 2011.

Tom was born to Lucia M. Ross and Thurman C. Thomas in Toledo, Ohio, on April 20, 1930.

He moved to Sacramento, Calif. at a young age, joined the armed forces in July of 1947, and spent 16 years of service overseas.

Tom, a Korean War veteran, flew med evac with MASH and combat cargo with troop carriers during the Korean War. He retired from the Air Force in January 1968.

He resided throughout the U.S. in Maryland, California, Florida, Texas and Washington, and finally settled on Whidbey Island in December 1988. Tom married Dolores P. (Pat) Velie on Sept. 13, 1952 at Brookley Air Force Base, Mobile, Ala.

Tom leaves his wife of 58 years and four sons and their wives: Steve and Cathy Thomas of Mukilteo; Mike and Kym Thomas of Chino Hills, Calif.; Joe and Gerri Thomas of Memphis, Tenn.; Rob and Kathy Thomas of Concrete. Also surviving are 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who will miss “Pop Pop” very much; a sister and brother, and many cousins.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 23 at Calvary Chapel Whidbey Island, 3821 French Road, Clinton.

Memorials may be made to the “Gideons for Bibles” in memory of Thurman R. Thomas.