Rickey Darnell Thomas was born September 30, 1961. His parents, Addie Mae Thomas and Dave Thomas were delighted to welcome their baby boy into the world.
As a young boy, Rickey oftentimes would work for his father, Dave Thomas after school. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family in the community. Rickey graduated from The Manatee High School in 1979.
Rickey loved to learn and enjoyed all aspects of science, statistics, and computer programming. Upon graduating from high school, he decided to pursue an associate’s degree in Information Technology at a community college in California. After two years, he decided he’d like to serve his country and go back to school at a later date. Rickey served in the U.S. Army from 1981-1990.
In 2003, he graduated from the State College of Florida with a degree in Information Technology.
Along with his passion for computers came a willingness to serve others. Rickey would go on to earn secondary degrees in Medical Billing & Coding and Phlebotomy.
Rickey was a pleasure to work with in the nursing field and at St. John First Baptist Institutional Church, where he was an active member. He loved listening to music and singing in the church choir. Also, he valued time spent mentoring the youth at St. John.
Rickey went home to his heavenly father on April 12, 2023.
He was preceded in death by his father, Dave Thomas, mother, Addie Mae Thomas, brothers; Felton Yawn, and Charles Stewart; sister Joyce Thomas.
He leaves to mourn his passing two sons, Joshua Thomas of Palmetto, FL and Marcus Thomas of Ellenton, FL. One granddaughter, Simone Thomas of Bradenton, FL. Two sisters, Debra Quartey of Clayton, CA, and Lahoma (Paul) Tugbenyoh of Pittsburg, CA. One brother, David Lee Thomas of Bradenton, FL, one sister-in-law, Yvonne Stewart. Special friends, James Hamilton, Deacon Arthur Wallace, Vanzetta S. Thomas and nieces, nephews, and sorrowing friends.
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