Jerome "Jerry" Edward Thomas

Jerome (Jerry) Edward Thomas, 66, of Montgomery, TX, passed away on May 30, 2025, after a valiant battle with cancer, just as he wished - at home, with his loving wife by his side.

 

Born on June 25, 1958, in Valparaiso, Indiana, to Dean and Patricia Vogt Thomas, Jerry grew up with a fierce determination and strong work ethic. He began as a paperboy for the Vidette-Messenger and carried that same drive into every chapter of his life.

 

A gifted athlete, Jerry loved basketball and played center from elementary through college. He was awarded a basketball scholarship to Southwestern Michigan College from 1976 to 1978, and from 1978 to 1980, he continued his education at Indiana University. He also ran track in junior high and college, holding a long-standing record for the 440-yard dash at Thomas Jefferson Junior High and the 4x100-meter relay at SMC. 

 

In 1983, Jerry enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served as an air traffic controller at Naval Air Station Dallas until his discharge in 1988. That experience revealed his true calling and launched a 30-year career as an air traffic controller with the Federal Aviation Administration—a profession he often said he enjoyed as much as playing basketball. The job suited his nature: decisive, dedicated, and disciplined.

 

Throughout his FAA career, Jerry served in control towers across Texas and Louisiana, including College Station, Monroe, David Wayne Hooks, Hobby, and George Bush International Airport. In 2007, he transitioned to Supervisor of Air Traffic Control at George Bush International Airport (IAH), where he served until his retirement in 2014. He was widely respected by colleagues and often awarded for his performance, professionalism, and positive demeanor. 

 

In retirement, Jerry remained active. He enjoyed shooting hoops, lifting weights, watching sports, and relaxing at his home, which he affectionately referred to as the crib. 

One of his greatest joys was working in the yard—he poured his heart into keeping a pristine lawn and thoughtfully planting flowers that brought color and life to his home.

 

Jerry had a rare gift for connection and an unmistakable zest for life. He made people feel seen, safe, and welcome. Admired for his strength, razor-sharp wit, and genuine heart, he lived with principle and purpose, always staying true to himself.

 

Jerry's memory lives on through the many lives he touched with his warmth, integrity, and laughter. Once he was your friend, he was your friend for life.

 

A lifelong Star Trek fan, Jerry was known for his perfectly timed, often blunt sense of humor. Per his request - and in genuine Jerry humor - he leaves us all with his favorite quote from Dr. Leonard McCoy: 

 

He's dead, Jim.

 

Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Dean Thomas of Vashon Island, WA; his mother, Patricia Thomas of Corpus Christi, TX; and his brothers, Jeff Thomas of Sugarland, TX, and Jon Thomas of Valparaiso, IN. 

 

Survivors include his wife, Brenda Bordelon Thomas; his son, Joseph Thomas; his stepson, George David (DJ) Strother II (Journee); and his cherished granddaughter, Marlee Strother. He also leaves behind numerous lifelong friends whom he considered brothers and sisters, as well as respected coworkers.

 

Per his wishes, a private celebration of his life and scattering of his ashes will be in Valparaiso, Indiana. 

 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Jerry Thomas Memorial Garden.