Cover photo for Robert D. Thomas, Jr.'s Obituary
Robert D. Thomas, Jr. Profile Photo
1952 Robert 2024

Robert D. Thomas, Jr.

December 25, 1952 — February 26, 2024

Greensburg

Robert D. Thomas, Jr., 71, of Apollo, died Monday, February 26, 2024, after a long-fought battle with Chronic Lymphatic Leukemia (CLL) and Lymphoma.  He was born December 25, 1952, in Homestead, a son of the late Robert D. Thomas, Sr. and Geraldine McClintock Thomas.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Pamela VanRyn.  He is survived by his companion, best friend and soul mate, Lorri Luciano; two daughters, DeAnna Thomas of Latrobe, and Erika Colonna (Nicholas) of Greensburg; grandchildren, Owen, Kinsley and Kacie; two stepsons, Charles Nitterright (Melissa) and Kyle Nitterright (Kayla), all of Mt. Pleasant; step grandchildren, Aleena and Joshua; brother, William Thomas (Brenda) of Chattanooga, TN; brother-in-law, Bob VanRyn of North Huntingdon, PA: his five nieces; Lorri's children, Michael (Alexa), Nicolas (Nicole) and Carli; and beloved puppy dog, Milo.  From the early days of teaching the Greensburg Salem H.S. marching band and color guard (PA) and Southern Garrett H.S. ‘Southern Belles’ (MD) to his current projects with Seminole H.S. (FL, Swansboro H.S (NC), and the Cleveland Arts Performance Ensemble (NC), Bob’s voice has been an integral part in shaping thousands of instructors and their students for over 5 decades. He is recognized as a long-standing adjudicator with Band of America (BOA), Drum Corp International (DCI), Drum Corp Europe (DCE) and Winter Guard International (WGI) long with many local circuits including West Penn, Mid-West, Mid-East, Tri-State, TRWEA, FFCC, CNEA, AIA along with many more. Bob was one the founding members of the Ohio Judges Association where he spent many years as the Education Director. His undeniable passion and commitment to judge education was unparalleled, leading him to take on a variety of education positions not only locally but throughout the United States, Europe and Asia including his most recent position seat on the Advisory Board for the Winds Division for WGI.  In addition to his passion for the arts, Bob was an avid runner often seen running around the Greensburg Community with his Lynch Mob family. Throughout his life, Bob completed 37 marathons, including the Boston Marathon 9 years in a row, 2 ultra marathons of 50 miles and 60 miles, 8 half marathons and countless 5K and 10Ks.  Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Bob, Sunday from 1 to 5:00 p.m with a time of reflections and sharing memories beginning at 5:00 pm in the Clement L. Pantalone Funeral Home, Inc. 409 W. Pittsburgh Street, Greensburg, PA 15601, (724) 837-0020.  The family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to Bob’s long-time doctor and dear friend, Dr. James Rossetti. Your dedication to your profession, your patients and their families is truly inspiring. We are forever grateful for your knowledge and skill in your field. And to the staff at Shadyside 6W Thank You for your kindness and compassion for not only Bob but our entire family.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society 333 E Carson St # 441E, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.  www.lls.org Robert’s family has entrusted his care to the Pantalone Funeral Home Inc., Greensburg. For online condolences / directions, visit us at pantalone.com. Natale N. Pantalone, supervisor.

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Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Sunday, March 3, 2024

1:00 - 5:00 pm (Eastern time)

Clement L. Pantalone Funeral Home, Inc.

409 West Pittsburgh Street, Greensburg, PA 15601

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Words of Remembrance

Sunday, March 3, 2024

Starts at 5:00 pm (Eastern time)

Clement L. Pantalone Funeral Home, Inc.

409 West Pittsburgh Street, Greensburg, PA 15601

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

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