Eric E. Thomas

Eric is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Rhonda Shikles Thomas; his two daughters Marianne Martynets of London, England and Marliese Thomas of Birmingham, AL.; and a granddaughter, Roksolana Martynets, and a grandson Roman Martynets, of London, England. He is preceded in death by his parents Paul Chesley Thomas and Marianne Haefelfinger Thomas of Cullman, AL.

Eric was born on March 14, 1946, in New York, New York, to Mr. and Mrs. Paul C. Thomas. He graduated from Cullman High School in 1964 and the U.S. Military Academy in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He also obtained Masters degrees from Harvard Business School, Tulane University, and The University of Alabama-Birmingham. Eric and Rhonda were married in 1974, having two daughters, Marianne in 1979 and Marliese in 1981. Eric spent his first 10 years after graduation from college as an engineer officer in the United States Army, including tours in Vietnam, the New Orleans District of the Corps of Engineers and teaching in the Engineering Department at West Point. He continued his Army career in the U.S. Army Reserves for 17 more years, retiring as a Colonel. Eric was employed by Southern Natural Gas Company in Birmingham, AL, for 29 years, with 20 of those as Chief Engineer. Following retirement he worked for the Pipeline Research Council, International in Washington, DC, for five years as Chief Operating Officer.

Outside of work, Eric was dedicated to his family. His recreations included home restoration, golf, and fishing.

A funeral service is scheduled for 2:00 PM on Monday, September 11, 2023 at Ridout Valley Chapel in Homewood, AL. There will also be a service and inurnment at the Cadet Cemetery at West Point, NY, on a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Disabled American Veterans or the charity of the individual’s choice.

The family would like to thank Eileen Crume, Gentiva, and all the nurses, staff, and health care providers of the UAB for their skill and compassion.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsvalleychapel.com for the Thomas family.