Ronald James Thomas was born October 30, 1948, in Bakersfield, California to parents Claude James and Jill Keller Thomas; soon after they had left Oklahoma for a better life in California.

Ron had a natural talent for music and taught himself how to play his father's guitar as a young child. As early as junior high school, Ron was already playing in a rock n roll band that he and his friends had formed.

Ron went on to college and moved to Houston in 1970 to work for The Offshore Company, starting his career as a draftsman. However, his desire for music never ended. He continued playing his guitar with a local Houston band every weekend. Ron eventually left his day job and went on the road for several years playing in clubs and venues throughout the Southern states with his band, Strawberry Hill.

When Ron married Lynn in 1976, he returned to Houston and was eager to start a family and was blessed with their son, Josh. He returned to work at The Offshore Company and aided in the design and build of some of the first Jack-up rigs for offshore drilling.

Ron was a true entrepreneur, founding his first business, T & S Hydraulics, which built drilling equipment for the oil field industry while in Houston. Later Ron and his family moved to Corpus Christi where he established Proglas, a company that designed and built shallow hull saltwater fishing boats.

Ron was especially proud of his family and loved to spend time with his wife, Lynn, and his son, Josh. Ron shared his love of music with Josh, teaching him to play the guitar before he was even school age. In addition to music and entrepreneurship, Ron shared his passion of the outdoors and nature with his family; leading uncountable hunting and fishing trips and solidifying the bond of family with joy, happiness, and wonderful memories.

Throughout his life Ron was an avid hot rodder, constantly rebuilding custom cars.  He had numerous Corvettes that he constantly tinkered with, and with the help of his son he completed a full frame off restoration of his 1957 Chevy as well as multiple motorcycles.  He shared his passion with fellow enthusiasts, winning many car shows and building lifelong friendships along the way.

After retirement, Ron and his wife moved to Magnolia where Ron continued to enjoy spending time with family and friends.

Ron was especially proud of his grandson, Miles, and found great fulfillment being able to spend time with him as Miles was growing up. They were inseparable, sharing many happy days just fishing at the neighborhood lake and hunting.

Ron passed away November 5, 2023. He is survived by his mother, Jill K. Thomas, his wife, Lynn Thomas, son and daughter-in law, Josh and Gayle Thomas and grandson, Miles Thomas, He is also survived by a sister, Cheryl Thomas. A private memorial service will be held at a future date. Donations in Ron's honor may be made to the American Kidney Fund.