Robert Mckinley Thomas

Robert McKinley Thomas, age 74, peacefully departed this life on Monday, January 1, 2024, with his loving and dedicated wife Gloria and his dog Henry by his side.

He was born in Buckingham County, Virginia on December 21, 1949, to the late George Thomas Sr and Jannie Thomas. Robert, affectionately known as Bob and BT by his wife and friends, was one of 6 children. While he may have been acknowledged by these names, he made sure that everyone was aware that his middle name was McKinley. It’s quite ironic that later in life Robert would work as a heavy equipment operator, driving the street sweepers for the city, he made it very clear as a child that climbing trees and performing summer work in the country fields was not his thing. Holding on to secrets as a child was another quality he was not known for. He was the true definition of a tattle tale. His siblings and childhood friends often speak about multiple occasions where they knew not to mention anything that they may have done, or about to do to Robert, because he would spill the beans ensuring that everyone knew it wasn’t him.

Robert grew up in the close-knit community of Dunleith and graduated from Delawarr High School in New Castle, DE in 1969. While in high school, through his love of music and performing, Robert and his friends created The Mellow Fellows. The group frequently competed in talent shows throughout the city of Wilmington and were named the winner of almost every show. After high school, Robert was drafted into the Army in 1969 where he worked as an Aviation Welder. He served for 2 years and was discharged with honors earning 2 medals, The National Defense Service Medal, and The Good Conduct Medal. After leaving the Army, Robert worked for General Motors and Analtech, however most notably known for his career with the City of Wilmington, Department of Public Works from where he was a member of Local Union 320, retiring after 30 years in 2016.

In 1976, Robert met his future wife and best friend of 41 years, Gloria Hill. They were later married on September 25, 1982, at Faith Tabernacle Church of the Living God in Wilmington Delaware. Robert had 1 daughter, Danielle, and from Robert and Gloria’s union, his two youngest daughters were born, Nikiah and Sherri, creating the blended Thomas family that we know today. He was the epitome of #GirlDad, an amazing and supportive husband and loyal friend. Robert and Gloria spent all their time together, whether it be spending time with family in Lancaster or traveling the country with their Masonic family. Later in life, Robert really enjoyed spending time with his wife in Atlantic City, but he would not gamble a dime…he would ride the tram car up and down the board walk, people watching and picking up his sweet saltwater taffy. Robert and Gloria were inseparable and loved each other unconditionally. If you saw Robert or Gloria alone, you would already know the other was close behind.

Robert loved the Prince Hall Masonic Organization and was a proud and dedicated member of Star in the East Lodge #1, Wilmington Delaware where he served as Worshipful Master from 2001 to 2002. He then joined the Royal Arch Masons and subsequently Suakim Temple #60 where he served as Illustrious Potentate from 2008 to 2009 and was a member of the bike unit. He later became a member of the Order of the Eastern Star (OES), Star of Bethlehem Chapter #8, Wilmington, DE in 1994. He served as Worthy Patron alongside his wife who served as Worthy Matron from 1999 to 2000 and later as the dynamic duo leading St Matthews Grand Chapter, Jurisdiction of Delaware as Grand Worthy Patron with his loving wife serving along his side as Grand Worthy Matron from 2017 to 2019. He was a member of Community Presbyterian Church and Coleman Memorial United Methodist Church. He attended Pentecostal Church of the Living God under Elder Kathy Johnson.

One thing, or should we say 7 people that Robert loved the most were his grandchildren. His favorite role in life was that as a grandparent. He treasured his time with his grandkids and loved being their Pop Pop, never failing to take plenty of pictures to keep in his “gallery” on his phone or bragging to his friends about any and everything they do. These kids were his world and he always made sure to do his best to give them everything he could.

Everyone who knew Robert knew how much he loved music and, even more, he loved to sing. His voice was amazing, and he continued to share his instrument with his friends and family until the end. We will forever hold on to the memories of joy and happiness he expressed through his voice, while singing songs such as “One in a Million,” “Center of my Joy” and most importantly “I Won’t Complain”. He made sure that we knew his good days outweighed his bad days. He thanked the Lord every day and never complained.

Robert will always be remembered for his bright and contagious smile, his pleasant and upbeat personality, and willingness to help anyone he encounters. Everyone he meets is a friend and could always spark a conversation with a stranger and continue as if they have known each other for years. He made sure to leave his footprint along every path he walked. We will always imagine hearing him say “let me borrow $2” or “let me get your shoes” one more time. His memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved him.

Robert was preceded in death by his Father George Thomas, Sr., Mother Jannie Thomas, Sister Barbara Samuels and Brother George Thomas, Jr. He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife Gloria of 41 years, 3 daughters Danielle Jackson (Monte), Nikiah Dawson (Jamie) and Sherri Costango (Keith), 7 grandchildren Myles, Chase, Kinley, Aniya, Austin Blaze, Elijah and Sawyer, 3 sisters Clara Hollis, Sandra Haile and Patricia Thomas. 5 sisters-in-law, 7 brothers-in-law, 3 God Daughters Andrea Alston, Malika Jenkins and Dawn Winfield, 1 Godson Miles Dryden and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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