Ronald "Ron" Thomas, age 59, of Union Mills, NC, passed away Sunday, May 7, 2023.

Ron was a native of Queens, NY and the son of the late Henry and Rosalind Thomas.

Ron served in the Air Force for 20 years. Ron and Debbie married April 27, 2013. He loved the mountains so much that he said, "Honeybuns, if I can get a job would you move to the mountains with me?", needless to say less than a month later Ron had a job, and we moved to Union Mills, NC in 2015. Ron was a true believer in gun rights, so much so that it became one of his few hobbies. He could repair and paint any gun, and he was a good shot to say the least. Ron took great pride in teaching his granddaughter Aniya all about guns, and the proper way to handle them. Aniya was an excellent shooter as well thanks to Ron. He spent a lot of his time using his 3-D printers, he especially making things for Debbie "Honeybuns", she has special pieces he made all over the house. Ron was an awesome and caring husband, stepdad, grandfather, brother, and friend, he will be truly missed. The family would like to thank his work family at Greenheck for all their support and food. They would also like to thank all the people that have reached out; they are so thankful for each and every one of you!

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 10 years, Debbie Thomas, two stepdaughters, Donna Shepherd, and Lineva Johnson, one stepson, D J  Shepherd, two grandchildren, Aniya Shepherd, and Tre Bryant, two sisters, Ruica Thomas, Roberta Thomas, and one brother, Raymond Thomas.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Friday, May 12, 2023, at McMahan's Funeral Home. The funeral service will be at McMahan's Funeral Home at 11:00 AM, Saturday, May 13, 2023, with Reverend Mike Chambers. Interment will be private at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, in Black Mountain, NC. In honor of Ron, memorials may be made to Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue; 380 US Hwy 221 N, Rutherfordton, NC 28139. McMahan's Funeral Home & Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.

Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue
380 US Hwy 221 North, Rutherfordton NC 28139
Web: http://https://www.heartofthefoothills.org/donate