Jerome Thomas

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jerome J. Thomas, on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 92 years. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. Born December 11, 1932, in Yonkers, New York, Jerome was the son of the late Joseph L. and Julia Fitzpatrick Thomas.

Jerome was a graduate of Carmel, NY High School. He was a graduate of the University of Notre Dame class of 1954, receiving a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil l Engineering. He was an avid Notre Dame football fan and enjoyed watching the games with his family.

He also received a master’s degree in civil engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY. Following graduation, he honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1954 to 1958. His professional career as a Civil Engineer spanned more than 30 years with the New York State Department of Transportation.

Jerome brought integrity and excellence to his work. Jerome showed his commitment to community and his love of people with both his work and his community involvement. This included serving on the Board of the Albany International Airport Commission and Colonie Town Council. He loved teaching and mentoring students at several colleges.

Jerome was a passionate student of history and a writer. Family was everything to Jerry, having been married 65 years to the love of his life, Lucille Thomas and their six children. While proud of his professional accomplishments, his greatest joy, proudest accomplishment, and greatest source of pride was his family.

A devoted family man, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lucille; his parents, Joseph and Julia Thomas; his brothers, Joseph and Larry; his sister, Terry; and his adored grandson, Cormac Fitzpatrick Thomas.

He is survived by, and will be deeply missed by his six children: Daniel J. Thomas (Sue) of Wilmington, Delaware; Kathleen A. Thomas of North Grafton, Mass.; David L. Thomas (Patty) of Avon, Ct.; Therese E. Shean (William) of Guilderland; Julie T. Byers (Albert) of Ashburn, Va.; and Dr. Stephen J. Thomas (Erica) of Skaneateles, N.Y. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren-Sarah, Rebecca, Stephen, Olivia, Natalie, Samantha, Ashley, Charles, and MacLane (Laney), three great-grandchildren-Chloe, Hannah, and Luke-and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

To celebrate Jerome’s life, on August 1, 2025, A calling hour will be held from 8:30 - 10:00 AM at New Comer Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, N.Y. 12205. Mass will be conducted at 11 AM at Christ Our Light Catholic Church, 1 Maria Drive, Albany, N.Y. 12211. Interment will follow at 1:30 PM at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, N.Y. 12871

Jerome lived a life of purpose and love and now abides in the grace of God. He lived a life of integrity, love, and service. As Scripture says, ‘I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.’ (2 Timothy 4:7).

Though he is no longer with us, his kindness, wisdom, and love will continue to guide and inspire us. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

To share a memory of Jerome or leave a special message for his family, visit the guest book below.