John W. Thomas

May 19, 2024

John W. Thomas, 90 of Plains Twp., passed away Sunday morning, May 19, 2024 at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born on November 13, 1933 in Wilkes-Barre, PA, he was the son of the late Harry and Mary (Derr) Thomas.

John was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was employed as a heavy equipment mechanic and operator at Lispi’s Garage, Superior Motors, Great Eastern Coal, Casay-Kassa, and Hudson Anthracite where he retired at the age of 79.

John was a true craftsman, finding joy in fixing things and restoring old  vehicles.  His garage was a sanctuary where he spent countless hours at work.  A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, John’s love for his family matched his passion for helping others.  He will be deeply missed by his family,  friends, and beloved cat Lizzy.  His legacy of dedication, skill, and love has and will continue to inspire all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Elizabeth Labuda on April 29, 2021, his daughter Rebecca Jacques, brothers and sisters Genny Belle, Effie, Isaac, Harry, Grace, and Minnie.

Surviving are his son John A. Thomas and his wife Deborah, Pringle, grandchildren John A. Thomas, Jr. and his wife Courteney, West Wyoming, Briana Lynn Ziller and her husband James, Plymouth, and Aaron Buzzinski, New York, great-grandchildren Lucas and Ethan Ziller, nephew Harold Thomas, Plains, niece Helen Benczkowski, Mountain Top, and dear neighbor of over 60 years Bernadine Stanski.

Funeral services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.  Arrangements entrusted to the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations may be made to the SPCA or your choice of Children’s Hospitals.