Donald Davis Thomas

Donald Don Davis Thomas of Newark passed away at his home at 7:05 pm on May 22, 2018.

Don was born in Rochester, New York on June 3, 1931. He was the youngest of five children of Leslie G. and Francis Thomas. He received a Bachelors & Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, where he taught in the School of Engineering for three years. In the late 50’s he moved to Newark after taking a job in the Elkton Division of Thiokol Corporation. At Thiokol he worked in the Aerospace Industry, participating in numerous space programs including the Moon Shot. He retired from the Elkton Division of Thiokol where he managed their Information Systems Department for 36 years.

He was an active and well respected member of the Masons for 40 + years. He was Initiated, Accepted and Raised into Hiram Lodge #25 in 1965. He served in many roles, including Past Worshipful Master of Hiram Lodge #25 in 1978 and Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Delaware in 2004-5. He was 3º Past Deputy Active Emeritus of Delaware and Past Active Member of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite. He was Past Grand High Priest of the York Rite and Past Intendent General of the Red Cross of Constantine.

Don and his wife Pam were active members of the Newark Community and the United Methodist Church. He served his church as the Head Usher for the 9:30 am service for over 35 years, as well as serving on a number of church committees. Donald was very active in Boy Scout Troop 255, located in Newark, serving as the church coordinator for that troop for 15 years.

He is survived by his beloved wife Pamela Brewell, originally of Cheam, Surrey England. They were married in Christ Church, Sutton England on September 7,1954. With members of both families still residing in England, they enjoyed frequent trips to Europe.

Don is also survived by daughter Tracy, also of Newark; his son Chris and daughter-in-law Julie of Raleigh, NC; as well as many nieces and nephews. His siblings Mort, George, Bob and Doris predeceased him.

A visitation and service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s name to the Newark United Methodist Church, 69 E Main St, Newark, DE 19711.