David A. Thomas

David A. Thomas, our beloved husband, father, grandpa and great-grandpa, brother, uncle, veteran, and friend, passed away on June 26, 2025, at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Clearfield, Utah, to Minnie Helen and William Ezra Thomas Sr., David was the youngest of three children. He remained devoted to his family throughout his life and shared a close bond with his brother Bill and sister Carole. As a boy, he found joy in simple pleasures like collecting baseball cards and watching westerns, especially anything starring John Wayne. His love of westerns deepened with age, and by 78, he had watched nearly every one ever made, most of them more than once. He continued collecting throughout life, adding basketball cards and other small treasures that brought him quiet joy.

David graduated with honors from Clearfield High School in 1965 and went on to attend Weber State College. In 1969, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve, balancing service with a desire to complete his education. That same year, he met a beautiful brunette named Elaine who would become the love of his life.

While dating Elaine, David converted to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They were married on May 1, 1969, in the Salt Lake City Temple. From the beginning, their marriage was rooted in faith, devotion, and above all, family. For David, family was not just a priority, it was his purpose. It became the foundation of their 56-year marriage and the guiding force behind everything he did. David had a deep and unwavering testimony of the Gospel and loved teaching Gospel Doctrine classes, among many other meaningful church callings, including service in the Bishopric. Whether at church or at home, he taught with clarity and compassion. In heartfelt letters and notes to his children, he often reminded them that while he was their earthly father, it was their Heavenly Father who truly guided and sustained them.

After earning a Bachelor of Science degree, David completed six years of service in the Army Reserve before reenlisting in 1977. His 38-year civilian career at Defense Depot Ogden (DDO) and Hill Air Force Base took him across the U.S. and overseas to Wiesbaden, Germany. Their time abroad became some of the family’s most cherished years, filled with vineyard walks, castle tours, Volksmarches, and travel across Europe. David and Elaine continued their love of travel with annual family trips to their Snowbird timeshare, often timed with Oktoberfest. It was a joyful reminder of their years in Germany. David had a strong work ethic and a deep desire to provide for his family. He also had a passion for basketball, playing regularly at church and during lunch breaks at the DDO, which led to decades of officiating football and basketball as a way to provide additional income for his family. He began with the NFIOA and later earned certifications through IAABO and UHSAA. While in Germany, he officiated as part of the Wiesbaden Officials Association. Known on the court as "Rules Thomas", he was respected for his fairness, consistency, and love of the game. His daughter Debbie and grandsons Cameron and Carson were inspired to follow in his footsteps.

After being activated during Desert Storm, David was activated again in 2003 following 9/11 and assigned to the Emergency Operations Center in Salt Lake City. There, he supported deployed soldiers, coordinated with hospitals, tracked soldier injuries, and worked closely with military leadership including a two-star general. He also helped return fallen soldiers to their grieving families, a duty he described as both humbling and sacred. He retired in 2007 on his 60th birthday after completing 36 years of faithful military service.

In retirement, David found new purpose working full time at the Syracuse Walmart in electronics and later as a training coordinator. He welcomed each new associate, including his daughter Jana, with warmth and pride. He made lasting friendships and left a meaningful mark on those around him.

David was known for his loving nature, contagious sense of humor, deep patriotism, and quiet spiritual strength. Even during a terminal illness, he found ways to lift others with laughter and kindness. He was happiest surrounded by family, especially during family game nights. Whether it was sharp thinking or sheer luck, David had a way of winning nearly every game he played. Playing family games will not be the same without his quiet confidence, quick counting, and playful charm. His children will especially miss their one-on-one time playing cards and Cribbage with their Dad.

To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was proudly known as Grandpa and Papa, titles he cherished. He was their storyteller, cheerleader, and quiet hero, making each child feel uniquely loved. He truly lit up in their presence, and they brought him immense joy.

To his children, he led by example, prayed for them daily, and loved them unconditionally. He shared quiet wisdom, showed up consistently, and made each of them feel seen and supported, leaving behind memories, love, and guidance they will carry forever.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Elaine; children Donnell (Kevin) Jones, Debbie Thomas, Jared (Brandi) Thomas, Joel (Heidi) Thomas, and Jana (Jeremy) Morris; 20 amazing grandchildren; and 9 precious great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Carole Sue Carden, as well as Cheryl and George Racz and family, and Grant Carden, all of Denver, Colorado. He was preceded in death by his parents Minnie and William Thomas, his brother William (Bill) Thomas, and cherished grandson Makena Thomas.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Roy 30th Ward LDS Chapel, 5900 South 3100 West, Roy, Utah, 84067. A viewing will be held on Friday, July 11, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., and again on Saturday from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will follow at Clearfield City Cemetery, 1050 State Street, Clearfield, Utah, 84015.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Enhabit Home Health and Hospice Services, as well as Renato, Linda, Chaplain Kim, and Baylee for their devoted care. Special thanks also go to the many family members, friends, and ward neighbors whose love and support carried them through this difficult time.

David’s greatest legacy is the love he gave his family. There are no words to fully express how deeply he was loved or how greatly he will be missed. We know he is watching over us and counting the days until we see him again.