Edmund B. Thomas Jr.

Edmund B. Thomas Jr. - died December 6,

2020 (78)

Edmund B. Thomas Jr. was born June 20,

1942 in Cleveland Hts., Ohio to Loretta M. Verhunce Thomas and Edmund B. Thomas, Sr. At a very young age, Ed told his family that he was going to grow up to be a historian. He earned degrees in history from John Carroll, Kent State, and Clark Universities, then came to teach at (then) Fitchburg State College in 1967. He loved everything about college life - the teaching, students, research, and books. Students would recommend his courses to those who wanted to learn history, but not for those who wanted an easy grade. He was especially proud of winning the Vincent J. Mara Excellence in Teaching Award and the honor of being professor emeritus.

He liked to quote Tip O’Neill’s “all politics is local,” and indeed was curious about everything, but the closer to home, the better. He taught

World Civilizations, US history, Massachusetts history, Fitchburg history, and knew plenty about his Pearl Hill Road. He was an active member of the Fitchburg Historical Society, the Fitchburg Public Library, and St. Bernard Parish at St. Camillus de Lellis Church. He had a smile and a kind word for everyone, and was ready at all times to listen carefully and discuss anything.

Edmund Thomas loved reading everything from original historical documents to the daily comics. He loved the Manchester United football team, caramel ice cream, and pretzels. However, there was nothing he loved more than his family. He was delighted to be married to Carolyn Williams Thomas for 52 years. He was a great father, a wonderful husband, and a proud citizen. He is greatly missed.

Services for Edmund will be held later in 2021 at a time to be announced.

There are no calling hours. Interment will be private at Cathedral of the Pines in Rindge, NH

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The Lavery Chartrand Alario Funeral Home 99 Summer St. Fitchburg, MA is directing. Michael S. Alario - Director - Owner