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Ray Alfred Thomas
Ray Alfred ThomasFootballRay Alfred Thomas, 73 of Delaware, died Thursday afternoon September 16, 2021 at the Ohio State University Hospital.

He was born October 25, 1947 in New Martinsville, West Virginia to the late Clarence Eugene and Gladys (Patterson) Thomas, he was also preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law: John and Betty Allen and an infant sister.

Ray was a teacher and coach in every way possible. Throughout his 36 years of teaching, he taught Math and computer science along with a stint of Drivers Ed. He had coached for over 50 years, coaching football, girls’ and boys’ basketball, girls track and baseball. He had also worked as an assistant AD and Athletic Trainer.

Ray had coaching and teaching stops at Cardington, Massillon Tuslaw, Elgin, Otterbein, Gahanna-Lincoln, Olentangy, Olentangy Liberty, Marion Tech and Ohio Wesleyan.

He was proud to receive his 50-year award from the Ohio Football Coaches Assn.

Ray’s players were like family to him, but he had his personal family that he cherished. He was so proud of them and loved to watch all of their activities. It was his true joy in life.

He was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ; he was a current member of the Alum Creek Church.

Ray is survived by his loving family, his wife, Linda (Allen) Thomas, they were married May 11, 1974 in Xenia. Their children: Brian (Annette) Thomas of Upper Sandusky, Angela (Tobias) Thompson of Powell and John “JJ” (Natalie) Thomas of Galena
Seven grandchildren: Tyus Thompson, Garrett Thomas, Lacy Thompson, Alayna Thomas, Colton Thompson, Gavin Thomas and Emerson “Emmy” Thomas

Services to celebrate Ray’s life are being planned for late spring/early summer of next year.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Elgin H.S. Athletic Dept. at 1150 Keener Rd S. Marion, Ohio 43302 and the Olentangy Liberty H.S. Athletic Dept. at 3584 Home Rd. Powell, Ohio 43065

The Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home is assisting the family

Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.stofcheck-ballinger.com





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Condolences       to

#1 from: Rita Rubeck Headington Parker
Richwood
Fri, Sep 17, 2021 at 6:25 PM

So very sorry about Ray's passing.  We had many fun years together on the EHS staff!  Ray was a great friend, teacher,coach, and family man.   My sincere smypathy to Linda and Linda & Ray's family.
 Rita Rubeck Headington Parker, EHS Media Specialist  1965-1996



#2 from: Judy G. Widder
 Bellville, OH
Fri, Sep 17, 2021 at 9:06 PM

Linda and family,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers as you mourn the loss of Ray.  He was an amazing man, teacher, coach, husband, dad and grandpa and all the other "hats he wore. He will be missed by many.  I have many wonderful memories of our time together when Ray and Jerry coached, together, our trips to Kutcher's and watching your "kids" grow up!  Keep all of your memories close as they will give you comfort now and in the future.  Sending love, hugs and prayers!
Judy Widder




#3 from: Andrew, Erica, & Caleb Silvia
Zanesville, OH
Fri, Sep 17, 2021 at 9:24 PM

Angie, Toby & family,
We are so sorry for your loss. May memories bring you comfort in the days ahead. Sending our love and prayers to you all. Give your mom a hug from us too.





#4 from: Laura & Rick Lewis
Delaware, OH
Sat, Sep 18, 2021 at 3:41 PM

We are truly sorry for your loss. Our family remembers Coach Thomas coming to many of Tyus's games. He loved watching his grandchildren and was actively involved in their activities. He has touched many lives and will be missed. May your loving memories help you through this difficult time.



#5 from: Deb Rush Howard
 
Sat, Sep 18, 2021 at 6:44 PM

Linda and family, So sorry to hear of your family's great loss. May memories comfort all of you in the coming days.



#6 from: Vanessia Purvis
Marion
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 9:11 AM

One of my favorite teachers at Elgin. Nothing but fond memories of Mr Thomas. I still remember the cook out he held at his home for the students. He cared about all of us and it showed.  I drive by his old house everyday and think if him.
Our prayers are with all his family.



#7 from: Brandt Roberts
 
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 9:33 AM

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Coach Thomas was one of my favorite teachers at Elgin. Sending prayers for your family.



#8 from: Paula Shaffer
Riverside, California
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 9:46 AM

My sincere condolences. Ray was a great  educator and was loved by his students and players. I enjoyed every class that I had with him and learned a lot of important life lessons from him. I still remember two big things that he taught:
 The meaning of Assume
 You don’t have to remember everything
  but know where to find it when you need it

Prayers for the family.



#9 from: Deb Boyle
Bellefontaine Ohio
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 9:54 AM

My deepest sympathy Linda and family. May you cherish all the memories you have made



#10 from: Mary Hilgenberg Davis
 106 State St; Edison, Ohio
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 10:02 AM

So very, very sorry.  There just aren't words to express what you are feeling at this very sad time.  Just know there are so many Elgin friends and family thinking about you and praying for you.  



#11 from: Joseph Derringer
Bullhead City, AZ.
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 11:16 AM

SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS .



#12 from: Jennifer Hicks Thompson
Prospect
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 11:36 AM

So sorry to hear of Ray’s passing. He was a wonderful teacher. Sending prayers for comfort during this difficult time.



#13 from: Kathy Dutton
Marion
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 11:41 AM

Linda, I am so sorry for your loss.  It's been a battle I know. Hugs and prayers to you and your family.



#14 from: Leslie Withrow Legge
Doylestown, Ohio
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 12:00 PM

My deepest sympathy to Linda and the rest of the family for you loss.  May you find comfort in the memories.



#15 from: Rick and Cheryl
Pawleys Island, SC
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 12:41 PM

Linda and family,  
As you have seen and know, Ray was a great man, educator, coach, and mentor.  I am so grateful I got to see him at the Elgin Alumni banquet in June.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family through this difficult time
Our sympathies,
Rick and Cheryl Bayless



#16 from: Lisa Oswald
 
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 12:58 PM

Linda, prayers and thoughts are with you all.



#17 from: Gloria Boles
Lakeview, OH 43331
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 1:34 PM

Linda & Family,  Our sincere sympathy to all of you.  Ray was a very caring individual and a pleasure to work with.  His smile was always a brighi one to start our day.  Treasure your memories. Ronnie & Gloria



#18 from: Debbie Robinson
Irwin  Ohio
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 3:43 PM

Sorry for your loss. Mr Thomas was a good teacher and a great coach.



#19 from: carolyn heimlich &JOHN
Marion
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 5:31 PM

LINDA &FAMILY

WE ARE SO SORRY TO HEAR OF RAY PASSING WE LOVED GOING TO CHURCH IN MARION . HOPE TO VISIT WITH YOU AT AULM CREEK CHURCH OF CHRIST YOU ARE IN OUR PRAYERS




#20 from: Mary Imbody Berridge
Prospect, Ohio
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 6:21 PM

Linda and family, I am sorry for your loss  of Ray. May God be with you all at this time.



#21 from: Rick and Cheryl
Pawleys Island, SC
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 7:26 PM

Linda and family,  
As you have seen and know, Ray was a great man, educator, coach, and mentor.  I am so grateful I got to see him at the Elgin Alumni banquet in June.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family through this difficult time
Our sympathies,
Rick and Cheryl Bayless



#22 from: Deryll Rohda
Powell
Sun, Sep 19, 2021 at 8:39 PM

To the family of Ray. … I am  sad to hear the news of Ray’s passing. Prayers and sympathy for family and friends mourning your loss.



#23 from: Beth Bishop-Long and Steve Long
North Carolina
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 6:41 AM

Linda and Family,
What a wonderful legacy Ray leaves professionally and personally.  We send our sympathy to you all.



#24 from: Julia (Napper) and Sherm Owings
Kenton OH
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 8:17 AM

Amazing man that not only was a teacher but willing to take that extra step to be there for his students in their personal lives. Blessed be



#25 from: Donna Bender
Prospect
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 10:38 AM

My deepest sympathies Linda. What a nice man. My thoughts and prayers to u and the family.



#26 from: Mike Crites
 
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 10:55 AM

Linda and Family,
I was so saddened to learn of Ray’s passing and am so very sorry for your loss. Ray was a wonderful educator, coach and friend.  He will be missed by many.  You are in my prayers.
Mike Crites



#27 from: Glenn Hunter
Georgia
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 11:01 AM

Ray would do anything for anybody!  He did so much for so many! One of the really "good guys". Trusted, respected... by both students and colleagues.  Our Sympathies to the Thomas family.



#28 from: Bob Thompson
Powell, Ohio
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 11:03 AM

It is my pleasure to have known, worked with and called Ray Thomas a friend!  Ray was an exceptional math teacher, coach and human being.  The Olentangy family will sorely miss Ray Thomas.  My prayers go out to Linda, Angie, Brian and JJ and families.



#29 from: Brenda. Goode Allinger
Columbus Ohio
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 11:08 AM

May your memories bring joy of a life well lived. He was a special person at OHS.



#30 from: Neal Handler
 
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 11:48 AM

My sincere sympathy to the Thomas Family. I worked with Ray at Olentangy HS and always found him to care deeply about his students.  He was a master teacher, as well as a successful and respected coach.  Neal Handler



#31 from: Shelley (Stiffler) Daubenmire
Longs, South Carolina
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 12:46 PM

So very sorry for your loss. Coach Thomas was one of a kind. I had him as a coach, a fellow teacher and had the privilege to work with him in the athletic training scope of practice. He was a great man, teacher, and coach. May GOD wrap his living and caring arms around each of his family members🙏🏻



#32 from: Donald Esber
Delaware, Ohio
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 1:14 PM

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. You will be missed.



#33 from: Joan Geist Short Jensen
 
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 3:28 PM

Ray was a great math teacher at Olentangy Schools who cared for his students. My condolences to his family and close friends.



#34 from: Todd Boggs
Sandusky, Ohio
Mon, Sep 20, 2021 at 7:19 PM

Coach Hale called to inform me of Coach's passing. I can't put into words what Ray and Linda meant to me as a young football coach and teacher at Olentangy. I will forever be grateful for the way the Thomas' took me in, provided the best pre-game meals, while Coach shared his vast knowledge of the game with me over so many years. I learned so much! Rest in peace Coach and thank you for all that you did for me! Love to the Thomas'family. Todd



#35 from: Steven Ackerman
Cardington, Ohio
Tue, Sep 21, 2021 at 8:37 AM

I always held coach Thomas in high regard. I will always remember the night I was pitching a shutout and, even though I hadn’t given up any runs, he chewed me out because he perceived I was not giving my best effort. While I didn’t like it very well at the time, I must admit he was right. He was a great coach and an even better man. I hope you can find comfort in that his spirit lives on in the lives of those he coached and taught.



#36 from: Jeff Riley
Westerville
Tue, Sep 21, 2021 at 10:02 AM

Ray was a terrific teacher, coach, friend, and mentor.  I cherish the time I was able to spend with Coach Thomas.  He was a great man. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wonderful family.  



#37 from: Karen Way
 
Tue, Sep 21, 2021 at 10:22 AM

I’m very sorry for your families loss. Ray was a kind, and caring man. It didn’t matter what role you played as a Olentangy staff member, he always took the time to check on everyone. Prayers to all of you.



#38 from: Brenda and Ted Gatchel
Prospect Ohio
Wed, Sep 22, 2021 at 7:34 AM

So sorry to hear of Ray’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. What wonderful memories of the football years at Elgin. May all the memories you carry in your hearts comfort you at this time.



#39 from: Ann Davis
Delaware, OH
Wed, Sep 22, 2021 at 7:24 PM

I have so many memories coaching against Ray both at Elgin and Olentangy.  Ray’s teams were well coached and demonstrated his character. My sincere sympathy to Linda, Brian and Angie. He will be missed.



#40 from: Jim and Deb Berridge
Prospect
Wed, Sep 22, 2021 at 8:16 PM

Linda, Brian, Angie And JJ and families.  So sad to  hear about Ray.  We have  many fond memories at Elgin and watching our kids  grow up together and play sports, which Ray was always involved. Ray was a  great coach, teacher and a good friend.    Prayers  of comfort  for your family through this difficult  time.  



#41 from: Paula Everett
 
Thu, Sep 23, 2021 at 11:47 AM

Kindest condolences to Ray's wife and children.  As an Elgin employee, I knew Ray to be a kind, enthusiastic person who would go the extra mile. I am saddened to hear of this loss.

Paula Everett



#42 from: Dawn Riedlinger
Marion
Thu, Sep 23, 2021 at 2:31 PM

I am sending prayers of comfort in this time of loss. Angie, your Woodward family sends much love to you and your family.

Dawn Riedlinger



#43 from: Tom Hesse
 
Thu, Sep 23, 2021 at 6:12 PM

Ray was a colleague of mine at Olentangy High School. He was a terrific teacher and coach. He had a huge impact on so many young people. He will surely be missed. My heart and prayers go out to his family of Linda and their three super children- Brian, Angie, and JJ.



#44 from: April Lowry Scowden
 
Thu, Sep 23, 2021 at 6:14 PM

It was a pleasure to know Ray. So sorry to hear of his passing. He was a great man well respected my many. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Hugs



#45 from: Rick and Cheryl
Pawleys Island, SC
Sun, Sep 26, 2021 at 8:19 AM

Linda and family,  
As you have seen and know, Ray was a great man, educator, coach, and mentor.  I am so grateful I got to see him at the Elgin Alumni banquet in June.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family through this difficult time
Our sympathies,
Rick and Cheryl Bayless



#46 from: Mark Davis
Marion
Tue, Sep 28, 2021 at 9:17 AM

My deepest prayers are with Ray’s family



#47 from: Eric Davis
Marion, Ohio
Sat, Oct 2, 2021 at 3:21 PM

I was saddened to learn of the recent passing of Ray Thomas, who I remember quite well from my days as a sports writer with The Marion Star. Ray was football coach of the Elgin football Comets for several years, going back to the old North Central Conference days. I covered his teams may times, and enjoyed a nice relationship with him. I recall when I'd interview him after Elgin games he'd always say "Now, try to make me sound intelligent, okay?" "No problem, coach," I'd say, but that always made me smile inside. For the record, coach Thomas didn't need my help to sound credible! It was coach Thomas who suggested to me one time that I consider taking on the job of statistician for the NCC, and I'm sure that wouldn't have happened had it not been for his support. I did that job for the last few years Marion County teams competed in the NCC and also for a few years with the Mid Ohio Athletic Conference. Ray probably had something to do with that, too. I also recall he was an athletic trainer of sorts at Elgin, helping athletes in all sports recover from injuries.
I sort of lost touch with Ray after he headed to Olentangy, where he continued his coaching career. He was a good coach, and a pretty fine gentleman, too. I liked him very much, and wish to pass on my condolences to his family and loved ones. Ray was one of the good ones!




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