William "Bill" Robert Thomas

William “Bill” Robert Thomas of Marietta, Georgia, passed away suddenly on Friday, September 6, 2024, at the age of 79. He was born on June 17, 1945, in Schenectady, New York, to parents Robert and Florence. Bill grew up in New York and lived in Rochester, New York, and near Detroit, Michigan, before moving to Roswell, Georgia. He retired to his dream home in Marietta, Georgia.

Bill graduated from Bryant College (now University) in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree, focusing on marketing. He worked in sales for many years, then took on his favorite role as a National Account Manager for Digital Sales for Eastman Kodak, covering Michigan retail sales, and noted it was “one of the most challenging and rewarding positions I have ever held.” After more than a decade, he went on to work at Ivex Corporation and Miller Zell, among other roles. After retiring, he also enjoyed his work at The Cook's Warehouse, which allowed him to focus on his love of cooking and teaching techniques.

After a brief first marriage, Bill married Lesley in 1970. They moved from Michigan to Georgia together and had two children; they were married for more than 20 years before divorcing.

In 2004, Bill married his third wife, Violet Naugle, and enjoyed two decades of retirement with the vivacious and loving woman. They bought a home in Marietta, Georgia, on a pond with lots of land for Bill’s gardens. They served together on the HOA for their neighborhood, which brought them great joy and many headaches. Bill’s proudest times were fighting to get the pond restored to its natural state after nearby development almost ruined the water and surrounding land. Bill also enjoyed the outdoors, his terraced backyard, and politics. He was also an active member of the social group ROMEO (Retired Old Men Eating Out), Marietta chapter.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Thomas of Schenectady, New York, and Florence Niles Thomas of Bellows Falls, Vermont; several uncles, Donald R. Thomas, Gordon Thomas, and Chester Niles; and an aunt, Rosamond Crawford.

He is survived by his wife, Violet Naugle Thomas, of Marietta, Georgia; two daughters, Nicola Russell and Susan Thomas; and three stepdaughters, Bonnie Naugle of Alexandria, Virginia, Kimberly Long of Danielsville, Georgia, and Michelle LaMothe of Oregon City, Oregon; 6 step-grandchildren; and beloved pets Buddy and Stella.

Vi and her family will hold a memorial and celebration of his life in their neighborhood to celebrate the natural landscape that Bill worked hard to create for his community.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his honor to the Cobb County Animal Shelter on Al Bishop Road or the Alzheimer’s Foundation.