I had been to Yankee Stadium the night before and was still retching from the tainted hot dog the next day when John came by the apartment for whatever our engagement would have been. I was too sick to move, he took one look at me and bellowed, “ Why Frank, we need to plant you, you’re green. (apologies to Elphiba). Happy heavenly 80th bd ol buddy. 

The memorial service and celebration of John's life were beautiful ways of preparing to honor him and his birthday today.  Deepest thanks to Valerie and Parker for sharing this journey with us.  Having known John for 30 years, his life will continue to be a source of inspiration.

Today is John's birthday  - nobody loved their birthday more than John! 

Rev.  John Thomas was our angel from heaven when our son was diagnosed with kidney disease.  He ensured that we  received the best care at Children’s Hospital and for that we will be forever grateful.  Even during the midst of his own health struggles, Rev. Thomas was able to bring hope to others.  Rest in Peace.  

Hello Valerie, sorry I was unable to attend the service for your beloved husband and my beloved cousin!!! I had surgery scheduled for November 16th that was rescheduled for December 1st. It would have been great to see everyone again!!! Please accept my condolences as I keep you and the family in my prayers!!! Let me know if I can help you in any way!!! Hope to see you soon!!! Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!! God is with us... ☝✝️🙏🤍❤🤍

John and my offices at Children's National Hospital were next to each other and we would talk every day about philanthropy, our families, the hospital's needs.  At one point the daughter of my roommate from college asked me to officiate at her wedding.  I did not have the credentials to do so but John, of course, was a pastor.  So we did it together, planning the ceremony, counseling the couple and co-officiating in a lovely barn with Valerie also present.  John was his normal affable self before and after the ceremony but during the ceremony he was something special, a minister with grace and solemnity.  John was a very special person and it was an honor to call him friend and colleague.   Mark Batshaw, Physician-in-Chief/Chief Academic Officer, emeritus, Children's National Hospital

I’ve known John for over 30 years first through business and John had a way of lighting up the room and taking command in a good way. He was a force! In 2019 John and Valerie visiting our Lake Lure Cabin and John woke each morning ready to explore a new running train ( on his own) and ready ready for fun.  As we were boating one afternoon he spied some kids jumping off a rope swing and he had to do it too. So we stopped and John swam over and got in line with the kids and jumped over and over for about 10 minutes while the 3 of us laughed and enjoyed his enthusiasm.  He   seized  the joy and fun and we should have taken the lesson and joined him!

Rest in Peace my friend.

I was stunned to hear of John's death.  Last time I saw him was at Jordan's Point maybe two years ago.  He and I had served on the Economic Vitality Committee of Main Street Lexington.  I am happy to have made his acquaintance.  May God rest his soul.

A wonderful tribute to a wonderful person. I was so fortunate to have crossed paths with John in the last few years, and I will be forever grateful for the lessons he and Valerie imparted to me as a young development professional in my first job. All my love to Valerie, Parker, George, and the rest of the family.