Thomas, Peter E.'s Obituary
Peter Edward Thomas died peacefully at his home in Largo on 26th September 2025, with his two sons Paul and Nigel by his side. He had achieved the magnificent age of 101 years, and had enjoyed every one of them.
Peter was born in 1923 in Burton upon Trent, a famous brewing town in the East Midlands of England. He was the second youngest of five children, his siblings being Peggy, Joan, Bill and Winnie. Peter achieved a scholarship to Burton Grammar School, to which his sons followed in his footsteps.
Peter was 15yo when WW2 broke out and when he was old enough, he joined the Royal Air Force and served his country as a pilot of twin engine aircraft. After the war he wed his sweetheart, Lily Kirk and they were married for 67 years until her death in 2012. For all those years they were totally devoted to one another, it was a joy to behold.
Inevitably, he eventually worked for a brewery, and many said he had the ideal job, as area sales manager in the Lake District, visiting pubs and bars, chatting to bar staff and buying drinks! Nevertheless, he was respected and enjoyed a long and successful career in the industry.
Peter and Lily had two sons, Paul and Nigel, and Peter encouraged them both in their education and sport and both graduated, Paul in languages and Nigel with a PhD in Biochemistry.
In 1988 he moved to Florida with his dear wife Lily and enjoyed a long and happy retirement. They joined the Calvary Episcopalian Church where Peter became the head usher. He loved the Florida climate and played golf regularly with his friend Gene.
Peter Thomas was one of those rare individually that everyone liked and respected. He was the epitome of an English gentleman, the very best role model for his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his sons Paul and his wife Ramona, and Nigel and his wife Kathleen of Largo and Australia, his grandchildren Scott, Alex, Chris, Ross, Paul and Annalise and nine great-grandchildren.
Details regarding celebration of life services will be announced at a later date.
Peter lived both a full and fulfilling life and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him. He will certainly be missed.
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