Gerald L. Thomas Sr.

Gerald L. Thomas, Sr. 72, of Syracuse, NY, entered into eternal rest on November 1, 2014 in Patchogue, NY, with his loving wife, Jannie, by his side. Gerald, also known as “Jerry”, the son of the late Laura Thomas Waller, was born in Connellsville, PA.  In 1944 the entire Thomas family relocated to Harrisburg, PA.  At the age of nine Gerald gave his life to Jesus Christ and was baptized at the St Paul Baptist Church.  He was educated in the Harrisburg City School System. When he was about twelve years old he developed a love for “homing pigeons”. This hobby led him to win many competitions and awards throughout the United States.  He also enjoyed fishing, camping, and spending time with his family. In 1960 Jerry enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served his country faithfully.   In 1967 Jerry relocated his family and his pigeons to Syracuse, NY.  On April 23, 1994 he married the former Jannie M. Raines.  Jerry worked for the Chrysler Corp. until he retired.  Later he worked for Catholic Charities as an administrator for ten years, and then retired.  After the passing of his mother, in 2003, Gerald rededicated his life to Jesus Christ. Gerald leaves to cherish his memory a loving, faithful and devoted wife Jannie M. Thomas; eight children, Gerri Lynn Chambers, Carmella Thomas, and Gerald L Thomas, Jr. all of Harrisburg, PA, Beverly Thomas, Yvette Emery, Shonda Page (Jimmy), Sharon Johnson, and Mary Harris all of Syracuse, NY; four siblings, Rev. Beverley Waller-Washington (Gonzales) of Harrisburg, PA, Elder Doris A. Waller of College Park, GA, Michael E. Waller of Syracuse, NY, and Gary L. Waller of Gainesville, FL; a special friend Cleveland Brooks (Teresa) of Syracuse, NY; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews,  cousins, and dear friends.