Earl, of Farmington Hills, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, peacefully passed into eternal life at home early Wednesday morning, June 12, 2024.  He was 91.

Earl was born August 8, 1932, in Detroit, to the late William and Beatrice (Smith) Thomas.  He married Johanna (Curtis) on September 11, 1954, at St. George Lithuanian Church in Detroit.

Earl was a feisty, fun-loving guy known for his love of a good joke.  An entrepreneur at heart, Earl owned his own business and built several of his own homes, showcasing his determination and skill.

Earl's generosity was as boundless as the day is long. He devoted countless hours to volunteering at his church, Our Lady of Sorrows in Farmington, as well as various charities, always eager to lend a helping hand.  Moreover, his love and commitment to his family were unparalleled, with his wife of 69 years, Johanna, being his foremost passion. Together, they traveled the world, creating beautiful memories, with Hawaii being Earl's favorite destination.

Earl and Johanna raised seven wonderful children, Cindi Mosher (Doyle), Mary Browne (Tim), Chris Shelters (Jim), Vincent Thomas (Janet), Sharon Whaley (John), Michael Thomas, and Julie Sebastian (Scott). His family continued to grow, blessing him with 13 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply.  Earl is also survived by a brother, Donald (Patricia) Thomas.  He was preceded in death by siblings, Catherine Hemyer, Mildred Hamlin, William Thomas, Marlyn Gilbert, and Robert Thomas.

The Thomas family will receive guests at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home, downtown Farmington, on Tuesday, June 18, from 3-8 pm.  There will be a time of prayer and remembrances at 7:00 pm.

Earl's funeral mass will be celebrated Wednesday morning, June 19, at 10:00 am (visiting from 9:30 am) at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 23615 Power Rd., Farmington.

Earl's spirit of fun and love will be dearly missed but forever remembered by all who knew him. His legacy of kindness, humor, and dedication to family and community will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have been part of his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan in honor of Earl's great-grandson, George Earl Whaley.

May Earl rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love and laughter he brought into the world.