Russell C. Thomas, Jr., 87, of Ontelaunee Twp., passed away Tuesday, December 3, 2024 in Keystone Villa- Fleetwood, where he was a resident for a short time. He was the beloved husband of Shelby R. (Hirneisen) Thomas, died March 17, 2011.

Born in Norristown, he was the son of the late Russell C. Thomas, Sr., and Elsie (Seiter) Thomas. He was a member of Pennside Presbyterian Church, Reading. He graduated from Muhlenberg High School in 1955; and was a US Army Veteran. Russell worked as a layout man for GPU Energy/ Met-Ed, for 31 years, retiring in 1999. He enjoyed hunting with his dog, Toby, going for runs/walks, and traveling with his wife. He was an avid fan of Penn State Football. He traveled across the country with his wife Shelby following Penn State Football and attending various auto racing events. He enjoyed watching his daughter and granddaughters throughout their competitive swimming careers, which spanned 30+ years. He was a member of Reading Fairgrounds Racing Historical Society and Temple Bandits Rod and Custom car group. He had previously served as an elder at Pennside Presbyterian Church.

He is survived by a daughter: Deborah L. (Thomas) Van der Sleen, wife of Marcel, Mohrsville; two granddaughters: Emily and Katelyn; and two nieces. He was predeceased by a son: Dean Alan Thomas; and a sister: Elizabeth L. (Thomas) Heist.

Funeral Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in Laureldale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to: Muscular Dystrophy Association, PO Box 7410354, Chicago, IL 60674-0354. Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., Leesport is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com