Bernie Thomas, Jr. B.K.A “Press”, the 3rd of 5 children, was born on November 26, 1955 in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Bennie Lee and Janie Ruth Thomas. After valiantly fighting a terminal illness, Bennie ascended into the heavenly gates on Thursday, September 13, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. In October 2011, Bennie gave his life to Christ.
Bennie was educated in the Baltimore City Public School system and graduated from Dunbar High School in 1973. His extra curricular activities during high school were playing basketball and football – where he acquired the nickname, “Baby Bull” being a lover of all sports, Bennie was an avid tennis player where he received numerous trophies and awards. Upon completion of his education, he began working at the Galvanize Steel Company with his dad.
He also was employed at Legg Mason. In 1975, Bennie began his employment with the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA). Throughout his 36 years at SHA, he held many positions which he received numerous accolades and letters of achievement.
He retired as an Area Materials Engineer in February 2011. In 1976, Bennie was blessed with his only son, Donell. In 1994, he met the love of his life and best friend, Donna.
He said he wanted a daughter and was blessed with two, Brittany and Stephany. On October 4, 2003, Bennie and Donna wed in holy matrimony and lived life to the fullest. Affectionately called “Pop Pop”, Bennie was truly a family man.
He played an integral part in his grandchildren’s lives. He referred to his home as “Head Quarters” because everyone was always welcomed. He was a movie buff, a lover of gadgets and tech savvy.
Inquisitive of how things work, he never shied away from a challenge. Meticulous with his appearance and good with his hands, Bennie was a jack-of-all-trades. He was a handyman, gardener, cook, interior decorator and above all else a teacher of life lessons.
Bennie impacted all those he came in contact with. Bennie gave priceless lessons that will forever be in the hearts of those who loved him. Bennie enjoyed dancing.
He loved hand dancing with his sister Beverly. He also adored having “Breakfast with Blease” (Evelyn). He was loved and adored by all for his warm and friendly spirit.
Bennie’s passing may leave us with sadness but we will lift him and ourselves up by celebrating his amazing life. His earthy journey is now complete. Left to celebrated his legacy and cherish his memories are: his loving and devoted wife, Donna; three children, Donell, Brittany and Stephany; eight grandchildren, Da’Jae, Dionna, Norah, David, Desmond, London, Dezi and Demi; two sisters, Evelyn Gray and Beverly Thomas-Young; two sister in-laws, Linda Dyer Lawrence and Betty Taylor-Cook; two brother in-laws, Herman Young and Tracey Little; his brother, Brian Thomas and a sister, Janie Little both of whom preceded him in death.
He also leaves a host of loving nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives and endearing friends.
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