Larry M. Thomas

Larry Mitchell Thomas, Sr., was the son of Mrs. Henrieltta Knight and the late Mr. Howard Thomas. Larry passed away on Saturday, July 24, 2004 at 11:57pm at Union Memorial Hospital after a lengthy illness. He was born on July 12, 1943 at Provident Hospital in Baltimore. Larry was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System and remained a resident of Baltimore throughout his life. He always worked very hard to support his family, which he loved so dearly.One of his proudest achievements was when he completed his training to become and Orderly at the Spring Grove Hospital. When he decided to leave their employment, he was encouraged to become a union representative for ASFCME. For the next decade, Larry worked tirelessly as a Council Representative and Organizer for Council #92. Larry became so well known in his profession that he was offered a position as a Business Agent and organizer with Teamsters Local#570. Again he worked relentlessly to become even more renowened for his abiliy to defend his clients. After over 20 years of hard work, Larry was appointed as theFirst Black President of a Teamsters Local in the State of Maryland (Local #103). As President of #103, he served a membership of thousands of state employees. He remained President of the Local for approximately four years before stepping down in June of 1994. Becoming President of Local #103 was Larry’s crowning professional achievement. He often recounted his career in the labor unions, which repeatedly brought him into the presence of Governors and numerous other dignitaries.Just before his passing, he was employed with the National Center on Institutions and Alternatives (N.C.I.A.) In Windsor Mill, Baltimore County, MD. Larry worked for (N.C. I. A.).for nine years as a transporter, house manager, and supervisor. His illnesses forced him to resign in November of 2003.As a teenager Larry met and fell in love with Eleanor Louise Wise, who later became his loving wife, where they were married at the Bethel United Church. He was also baptized in Jesus name at Bethel by Bishop J. R. Lewis. Larry and Eleanor spent over 36 affectionate and loving years together before his passion.Spending time with his family and friends was his greatest joy. Larry enjoyed his life and was a cool dresser, taking great pride in his “ Caps and Hats.” He was a man of joy and laughter, who made others laugh as well. Boxing and wrestling were his favorite forms of entertainment. Just before he passed, he and Larry Jr., had been watching a boxing match. He also enjoyed watching Vampire Movies and remembering Doo-Wop singers of the 50's and 60's.Larry Mitchell Thomas, Sr. will be missed. He leaves to mourn: his mother, Mrs Henrietta Knight; his loving wife, Eleanor; two daughters, Charlene Morris, from a former marriage (of Charlotte, NC) and Djuana Mc Eachin; three sons, Larry Jr., Damian, and Shawn; one brother, Gregory Crosland; three sisters, Janet Stanley, Constance Plowden, and Gretchen Crosland; six brothers-in-law, three sisters-in-law, fourteen grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Larry M. Thomas

July 12, 1943 - July 24, 2004