William Roderick Thomas, Sr.

William Roderick Thomas Sr. passed away Jan. 25, 2026, at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy defined by kindness, generosity, sacrifice and heartfelt connection with others.

A longtime truck driver, William spent much of his life on the road, working tirelessly to provide for those he loved. The demands of life away from home required great sacrifice. Time with family was often limited, and the physical toll of the road affected his health. He made these sacrifices willingly, always focused on caring for and providing for his family.

William enjoyed interests that reflected his humor, warmth and appreciation for independence. He loved movies, especially science fiction and films that were more entertaining than polished, and he followed professional wrestling throughout his life, enjoying its characters and storytelling. He was drawn to American biker culture, something that fit naturally alongside his years as a truck driver and the independent way he lived. He also had a lifelong interest in hunting, fishing, and firearms and enjoyed spending time at the range and fishing with family, activities he shared across generations and valued as time spent together. Throughout his life, he carried a fondness for guitars, often playing casually for his own enjoyment and appreciating them as a personal and expressive pastime. Together, these interests reflected a man who valued freedom, connection and living life on his own terms.

He was known for his deeply generous heart. What he did have, he chose to share rather than keep for himself. He opened his home to those in need, helped others financially, and gave freely of what he had, often putting others ahead of himself and doing his best to help anyone who asked. His generosity was never conditional. It was simply part of who he was.

William was also a warm, outgoing and friendly person who had a natural gift for conversation. He could easily strike up a chat with anyone and had a way of making people feel comfortable and welcome. He loved jokes and always seemed to have one ready, often using humor as a way to connect, relate and bring a smile to others.

In his final days, William deeply valued the care and companionship he received from his hospice team. He truly enjoyed the time spent with his nurses and aides, Jenny and Yesii, and Jimmy, his chaplain. Their presence, kindness and support meant a great deal to him and his family.

He carried a lifelong love for his daughter, Ceanna Lorraine Thomas, who passed away due to complications at birth. She remained close in his heart and was lovingly remembered by him always.

William was preceded in death by his parents, Frank MacDonald Thomas and Dorothy Helen Thomas, his brother, Robert MacDonald Thomas, as well as his daughter, Ceanna.

He is survived by his sister, Patricia Dunning; his daughter, Cassandra Dree'El Ellsworth; and his sons, William Roderick Thomas Jr. and Brian Keith Hughes. He is also lovingly remembered by his five grandchildren: Zane James Ellsworth, Zoe Jane Ellsworth, Amunique Rayanne Sue Ellsworth, Conrad Harper Thomas and Mathias Broderick Thomas.

William Roderick Thomas Sr. will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

    William Thomas cared deeply for his family and the simple joys in life found in service to those he cared for.