Rodney Lon Thomas Sr

Rodney Lon Thomas Sr. was born on August 19, 1948, to Alonzo Thomas and Mabel Dixon Thomas in Lorain, Ohio. He peacefully departed this life surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and devotion to family, country, and community.

Rodney was a graduate of Lorain Admiral King, completing high school in June 1966. Shortly thereafter, he married his first wife, Petronilla Smith, and to their union, three sons were born: Rodney Jr., Jason Alonzo, and Devin Maurice. He honorably served in the United States Army from May 1967 to May 1971, including service in Vietnam from June 1970 to May 1971. His service was recognized with the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Specialist (E-5).

Following his military service, Rodney devoted many years to Aztec Catalyst Company, where he advanced through several roles and later served as a Safety Specialist. In this capacity, he was known for his leadership, commitment to workplace safety, and care for his co-workers, earning the respect of all who worked with him.

Rodney later married his devoted and loving wife, Sandra, on August 18, 1999. Together, they enjoyed farm living, traveling in their RV, and going on cruises with family. Rodney loved nothing more than spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the joy of his life.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, Alonzo Thomas and Mabel Dixon Thomas, a brother, Lonrenzo Flanders-Thomas, and a grandson, Kevin Blakely.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted and loving wife of 26 years, Sandra Thomas; his sons, Rodney Thomas Jr. (LePreece), Jason Thomas (Tanika), Devin Thomas, all of Lorain, OH, and Preston Blakey of Cleveland, OH and Kevin Blakely of Atlanta, GA; his siblings, Roger Thomas (Mary) of Gulfport, MS, Lynn Thomas Holly of San Diego, and Keith Thomas of Tennessee; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Brown-Robinson Funeral Home and Celebration Center, 6075 Middle Ridge Road, Lorain OH 44053, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Minister Jason Thomas, Officiant, Bishop Rodney L Thomas Jr, Eulogist.