Longtime harness racing industry participant Alfred 'Al' Thomas of Milton, Mass. passed away on August 4, 2015 at the Brigham & Women's Hospital.
Thomas was an Army Veteran of WW II, and he served with the Medical Detachment 7th General Hospital, England during "the Blitz". Al was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Milton, The Neighborhood Club of Quincy, American Legion Post # 114, Milton, the Milton Merchants, Quincy Elks, Milton Lions Club, Milton Historical Society, St. Agatha Church Nocturnal Adoration Society, and the Knights of Columbus Council #2749.
On the Standardbred side, he was the Founder and Past President of the Massachusetts Horseman's Association, the former General Manager of the Foxboro Raceway, a member of the United States Trotting Association, The New England Harness Horsemen's Association, the Maine Harness Horsemen's Association and owned several stakes-winning horses that raced throughout the country.
Al was the sponsor of countless sports teams in the town of Milton and sponsor and biggest fan of the Al Thomas A's Yawkey League Baseball Team. He will be remembered as one of the most respected members of the Milton Community as he has served local families in their time of need and through his involvement in countless civic activities. For years Al Thomas has been responsible for organizing the East Milton Square Holiday Tree. His many donations to the community included providing the sparkling tree lights to decorate the M. Joseph Manning Deck at the Christmas Season.
One of Al's greatest pleasures was his work at the Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home and he was proud to have his nephews working with him in the Thomas Family Funeral Homes to carry on his legacy.
Beloved brother of the late Frances M. Nassar, Marie B. Azer, Mae Evangelista, Alexander F. Thomas, Sr., Edward W. Thomas, Thomas R. Thomas and George J. Thomas. He is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and countless friends. Funeral services and a burial with full Military Honors at Milton Cemetery have already taken place.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in his memory to St. Agatha Church, 432 Adams St., Milton, Mass. 02186.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Al Thomas.
Al was one of the finest
Al was one of the finest gentleman and great supporter of harness racing in New England.His Lord and Lady horses dominated racing in New England for decades. RIP Ollie.
Although I haven't been in
Although I haven't been in touch with Al for several years, he was one of the finest gentlemen I have had the pleasure of knowing in a lifetime in this business. RIP Al Thomas.