Dr. Robert E. Thomas, O.D., Lt. Colonel USAF, Ret. passed away on November 19, 2025 at his home in Newport News, VA. Bob was born in Fuquay-Varina, NC in 1930. After graduating from Fuquay Springs High School, he attended The University of N.C., graduating from The Southern College of Optometry in TN.

Dr. Thomas served as an Air Force Optometrist for 20 years, and after retiring from the military, he then practiced optometry in Virginia and North Carolina. Bob was a member of the Virginia, North Carolina and American Optometric Associations.

Bob was predeceased by his wife of 52 years, Lessie Cassell in 2010. He is survived by daughters Lisa Blandford, Sandra Chapman (Neil), son Robert E Thomas Jr. (Brenda), sister Joan Strickland (Greg) and his grandchildren, Emily Blandford, John Blandford, Trey Thomas, Meret Thomas-Huebner and Jemima Chapman.

There will be a private Memorial service followed by interment at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery, Spring Lake, NC with his beloved wife.
Bob was a beloved father, grandfather and brother and will be missed dearly.