William Ruellan Thomas, 93, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 4, 2020, in Humble, Texas. He was born August 30, 1926, in Wellsville the son of William and Mary (Fink) Thomas. On December 27, 1958, in the Immaculate Conception Church of Wellsville, NY, he married the former Ann R. Langerman, who predeceased him on February 15, 2022.
Bill was a veteran of WWII, serving in the U.S. Navy from December 1944 to July 1946, where he became the ship’s barber. He continued working as a barber until the age of 85. Bill loved being outdoors, and enjoyed hunting, sport shooting, square dancing, western novels, and family picnics. At his barbershop in Wellsville, you would find his painting and small pieces of furniture he refinished for sale. He was very talented in all three. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 919, and the American Legion Post 702. He was devoted to his church and family and was truly a kind and gentle soul. In 1987, Bill and Ann moved to Leesburg, FL, where they resided for 31 years.
He is survived by: a son, Peter (Lauri) Huffman of Texas; a brother, Noel Thomas of Charlotte, NC; and several nieces and nephews, especially Shelly Burns, with which much loved and gratitude for all of her help. In addition to his parents, and wife of 63 years, Ann, he was predeceased by: a son, Paul Thomas; a brother, Basil Thomas; and a sister, Helen T. Egner.
Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, 276 South Main Street, Wellsville, NY. Please consider memorial donations to the Allegany County Comfort House, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences please visit ww.embserfuneralhome.com.