Charles Louis "Dick" Thomas
December 29, 2020
CHARLOTTE – Charles Louis (Dick) Thomas died on December 29, 2020 at Southminster in Charlotte North Carolina after a long battle with dementia. He was 90 years old. Dick was born in Atlanta Georgia on April 30, 1930, son of Charles Louis Thomas, Sr and Elsie Hogans Thomas and the brother of Sister Mary Sue Thomas of Philadelphia, all of whom predeceased him.
Dick graduated from Georgia Institute of Technology with a degree in Industrial Management. He served in the US Army as a Lieutenant from 1953 to 1955. A successful and innovative businessman, Dick was a leader in the fire protection industry for 40 years where he was awarded numerous patents in the field. He was Vice President of Southeastern Fire Control as well as President and Founder of Argus Fire Control Systems, work that allowed him to travel extensively to China, Europe and the Middle East which he loved. In the early years of traveling for his business, he crisscrossed the Southeast never letting a barbeque joint or oyster shack pass him by.
He was an active member of Christ Episcopal Church and the National Fire Protection Association among other organizations. His interests included skiing, boating, fly fishing and travel. In retirement, he enjoyed time spent at their mountain home in Jefferson NC and became an accomplished wood worker -everything from bowls to rocking chairs were his specialties. He was generous with his time and talent, teaching his grandchildren and their friends the craft.
In addition to his wife of 64 years, Jeanne Johnson Thomas, he is survived by daughter Teri Thomas Haddock and her husband Paul Haddock of Charlotte, daughter Laura Thomas Wand and her husband Steve Wand of York, Pennsylvania. Known as Pop-Pop, he leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: George Haddock (Emily) of Nashville TN, Captain Paul (Kip) Haddock (US Army) of Colorado Springs, CO, Charles Haddock of Charlotte, Thomas Addison Wand, William Wand and Katherine Wand of York PA. Additionally, he is survived by his brother-in-law George Johnson Jr, nephews Shel Johnson and Jay Johnson of Atlanta.
Although his time at Southminister was short, Dick won the hearts of many there with his kindness and sweet disposition. His caregivers there, including Sabrina Parrish, Allyson McGill, Michelle Berrette, and Nadia Edwards were compassionate and caring to him every day and we will forever be grateful for their help and love. Hospice nurse Kya was invaluable and comforting in our time of need. His friend and caregiver, Jim Lawton, truly walked the extra mile with Dick and kept his life as normal as possible for as long as possible. Lastly, we thank Dr Chuck Edwards from Memory and Movement of Charlotte for guiding us through this journey with his knowledge and strength.
Dick will be remembered for his trademark kindness to all he met, his wonderful sense of humor and his love of children and dogs - a true Southern gentleman describes him perfectly. His life will be celebrated with a private family memorial service in the rose garden at Christ Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider contributions to Christ Episcopal Church 1412 Providence Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207, Southminster Community Fund 8919 Park Road Charlotte, NC 28207 and Memory and Movement Charlotte 300 Billingsley Rd STE 108, Charlotte, NC 28211.
Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.
Comments
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What a beautiful tribute to Dick! He was indeed a delightful man - always quick with an interesting story or three. I chuckled when I read one of his interests was skiing, remembering his anecdote about the Army assigning him as a SNOW ski instructor. My prayers are with Aunt Jeanne, Teri, Laura and the whole family. He was a good-hearted man, and I feel blessed to have so many good memories of him. Much love from the "Charlotte Johnsons".
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Jeanne – On behalf of everyone at Argus please know that we extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Argus is a continuing testament to Dick’s inventiveness and the hard work of both of you. We thoroughly enjoyed Dick’s visits over the last several years. His age and illness may have taken their toll, but they could not tamp-down his infectious enthusiasm and his joy at seeing the continuing fruits of the venture the two of you created. He still had the ability to light up a room with his smile. Lastly, the reference to Dick as a classic Southern Gentleman could not be more pertinent. We will sincerely miss him.
With kindest regards to you and your family,
Bob Duncan -
Jean, I am so sorry about your loss. I didn’t know Dick well but after reading this beautiful tribute I so wish I had. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. Love and prayers. Fran
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What a great guy. A southern gentleman was perfect. Dick will be greatly missed.
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Mr.Thomas has left me with really great memories and laughs to brighten my day when I think about him. Just an awesome, appreciative and thankful person. Best "hugger" ever. Absolutely great family.
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