Frederick R. L. "Ray" Thomas

Frederick R. L. "Ray" Thomas, 74, of Ashland, left us peacefully on Sunday, September 27. 2020.
Born in Briggate, England to Myrtle Lloyd of Norfolk ,England and Sergeant Frederick R.L. Thomas, Sr. of Natick.

A true woodsman and all around handyman, he enjoyed fishing, wood carving and Bourbon. He spent his early years working for the State Park Service, priding himself on knowing every tree of New England. It’s of no surprise that when it came time to retire from the Town of Natick after 40 years, he wanted to be surrounded by nature. In the year 2000 Ray designed and built his perfect vacation home in the woods of New Hampshire near Lake Winnipesaukee. Upon arrival friends and family would immediately feel Rays warmth and hospitality, it was obvious the house was built with love. Some of the best parties held at Ravens Rest were simply impromptu gatherings in his workshop on hot summer nights. We credit his attire- good Hawaiian shirt- as a standing invitation to pour a drink and have a seat.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years Marilyn A. (Baldelli)  Thomas; his amazingly talented and handsome son Erick A. Thomas and wife Karina L. Bowie; his brother, Alexander R. Nightingale and his wife Maria Del Corro of London; his cousin Graham Tolfree, his loving wife Tina and their family Jade, Jason, Billy and Sean.  

An immense Thank You to our good friend and cousin Gary Laundry who has helped us over the past year during this emotional time. A heartfelt Thank You to our neighbors on Meadowbrook Lane and Sawyer Point for all of the love and continued support. And a special Thank You to all the health care workers and medical staff at Oak Knoll, Natick Walpole VNA, Harborside Hospice and Leonard Morse Cancer Center for your kindness. 

Due to Covid 19, all services will be private.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ray's memory to Harborside Hospice, 241 Winter Street, Haverhill,  MA  01830 or American Cancer Society, donate3.cancer.org.

Arrangements are under the care of Morris Funeral Home, 40 Main Street,  Southborough.  
To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit. www.morrisSouthboroughfuneral.com 
 

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