Edward Thoman, Sr.

Edward "Ed" Thoman, Sr.

of Rome, PA

It is with a heavy heart and a celebration of a life well-lived that we share the passing of Edward "Ed" Thoman on August 25, 2024, in Sayre, PA. He has crossed over to be with the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Born on February 8, 1937, in Newark, NJ, Ed's journey through life was one marked by love, service, and the joy of music. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth and dedication, touching the lives of all who knew him.

Ed is survived by his devoted wife of 19 years, Thelma Thoman, who was his partner in both adventure and faith. Together, they created a harmonious life filled with travel, music, and worship. His memory will be cherished by his beloved children: Edward Jr. (Julie) Thoman of Port Charlotte, Fla; Ellen (Kevin) Robinson of Rome, Pa; Eric (Ginny) Thoman of Rome, Pa; Everett Thoman of Texas, Joseph (Bethany) Thoman of Parsons, TN, and daughter in law Leeonda Thoman of Rome, PA. His stepchildren Nancy Janssen (William Tubbs); John Janssen, Carol (Peter) Webber, and Rob (Heather) Janssen also held a special place in his heart.

The joys of grandfatherhood were many for Ed, as he was adored by his grandchildren: Brian (Jenny) Thoman, Gregory (Lauren) Thoman, Katie Steinhilber, Daniel (Deanna) Robinson, Amanda (Sean) Alden, Melissa (Jason) Long, Matthew (Christen) Robinson, Elizabeth (Chris) Pitt, Eric (Britanny) Thoman, Jr.; Jennifer (Ron) Droske, Steve Thoman, Everett Thoman, Jr., Shawn (Jamie) Thoman, Joshua (Casey) Thoman, Katie Baker, Mariah Thoman, Matthew (Taylor) Webber, Katie (Jason) Kelley, Kara Welliver, and Sydney, Meredith, and Leo Janssen. His many great-grandchildren and great- great grandchildren will also miss their loving Grandpa.

Ed's siblings, Emil (Carol) Thoman, William (Helen) Thoman, and sister Marion Thoman, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family, will fondly remember his loving nature and handy skills. Ed was predeceased by his parents, Emil and Helen (Kostick) Thoman, and his first wife of 42 years, Melva (Scrittorale) Thoman.

A proud veteran, Ed served in the US Army in Germany, a time that shaped his character and commitment to his country. After moving to Bradford County in 1978, he made Rome, PA, his home and community. For over 40 years, he owned and operated Thoman's Autobody Repair in Orwell, where he was known for his work ethic, integrity, and craftmanship.

Described as loving, faith-filled, and handy, Ed's presence was a comfort and inspiration to many. Ed had a great passion to share his Christian faith with all people he encountered and one of his favorite phrases was "If you meet me and forget me you lose nothing, but if you meet Jesus and forget him, you lose everything".

Ed's passion for music was a defining aspect of his life. A talented musician, he taught himself to play the guitar and violin, bringing joy to many through his performances. He loved playing guitar with friends and shared his gift as part of the music ministry at area nursing homes. Ed's faith was expressed through his music at Faith Christian Fellowship in Apalachin, and he cherished the times he spent worshiping with Thelma at their church.

An avid outdoorsman, Ed relished in hunting, fishing, and raising cows on his property. His love for motorcycles and the great outdoors was only matched by his skillful hands, which could fix nearly anything. He was a fixture at the Men's Breakfast on the First Saturday of the month at Orwell Bible Church, sharing fellowship and stories.

As we say goodbye to Ed, we reflect on a life that exuded kindness, a spirit of giving, and the melody of a song well played. He will be deeply missed, but his tune will forever resonate in the hearts of those who loved him. We will gather on Saturday, August 31st for a period of visitation from 10 -12 pm. A funeral service will follow at 12 pm with Pastor Pete Darling, officiating. Ed will be laid to rest in the Darling Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Faith Christian Fellowship Church, 27 Beach Road, Apalachin, NY 13732 or the Orwell Bible Church, 1749 Orwell Hill RD, Rome, Pa 18837 in loving memory of Edward Thoman.