Joseph Thomas

Joseph Edward Thomas, 62, of Friendswood, Texas, passed away at his home on September 13, 2026. He was born in San Antonio, Texas, on June 8, 1964, to Joseph R. and Elizabeth Thomas.

Joe graduated from MacArthur High School in 1982 and attended The University of Texas at Austin, where he was a proud member of the Longhorn Marching Band, playing clarinet. He graduated in 1987 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Joe began his career with Lockheed Martin before joining Boeing, where he spent the last 31 years of his professional life. He worked in safety supporting the International Space Station, a career that allowed him to combine his engineering knowledge with his commitment to an important and extraordinary mission.

Music remained an important part of Joe’s life long after his days in the Longhorn Marching Band. He was an active member of his local community band and enjoyed the friendships and fellowship that came with making music together. He was also an active member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, where his faith and his church family were an important part of his life.

Joe had a particularly special connection to Camp Capers, a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese. He spent many years there as a counselor and continued to return for activities and fellowship throughout his life. Camp Capers gave Joe a place to share his love of the outdoors, his sense of adventure, and his genuine enjoyment of being around people.
Those who knew Joe will remember his generous spirit and his willingness to say yes to just about anything fun. He loved being outdoors, trying new things, spending time with family and friends, and making the most of an opportunity for adventure. He had a way of bringing enthusiasm and good humor to the things he cared about, and he gave generously of his time and himself to others.

Above all, Joe was deeply loved by his family. He was a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend. His absence will be felt in countless ways—in family gatherings, in music, in the outdoors, at Camp Capers, and in the many communities where he gave his time and his heart.

Joe is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Thomas; his brother, Wayne Thomas, and wife Rebecca; nieces Angelique and Sydney, and nephew Colton; his sister, Karen Albright, and husband James; niece Paige and nephew Joshua; as well as extended family and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph R. Thomas, and his niece, Juliana Cody Storm.

A funeral service celebrating Joe’s life will be held on October 12, 2026, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 18220 Upper Bay Road, Houston, Texas. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m.,followed by the service at 10:00 a.m. If you cannot attend, you are invited to watch the livestream of his service by visiting: https://gdlc.online.church/

A reception will follow. Attendees are encouraged to wear Hawaiian shirts in honor of Joe’s unique style and affinity for the fashion.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Gloria Dei Endowment Fund in Joe’s memory.

Joe lived a life filled with music, service, faith, friendship, adventure, and a love of the outdoors. He leaves behind a family and community who loved him dearly and who will carry his memory with them. He will be deeply missed.