LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION mourning the death of Robert J. Thomas, distin-
guished citizen and devoted member of his community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavors
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and
WHEREAS, It is with great sorrow and deep regret that this Legislative
Body records the passing of Robert J. Thomas, distinguished citizen and
devoted member of his community, on November 10, 2014; and
WHEREAS, Born in Dexter, New York, on February 3, 1937, Robert Thomas
was a resident of Glen Park, New York, until his death; and
WHEREAS, Robert Thomas served in the United States Navy and was
employed as a Hydro Maintenance Supervisor for Niagara Mohawk in Water-
town; and
WHEREAS, He served as a police officer for Glen Park and Brownville
for 48 years; and
WHEREAS, Robert Thomas was first elected to public office in 1994, and
served as a Jefferson County legislator for 20 years, as Vice-Chairman
for two terms and as Chairman of the legislature for eight of his 20
years; and
WHEREAS, Robert Thomas was a tireless proponent for Jefferson County
and, in addition to his law enforcement and legislative service, was
also a member of the Dexter Masonic Lodge, the Glen Park Fire Depart-
ment, and served as an EMT; and
WHEREAS, He will long be remembered for his dedication and hard work
on behalf of Jefferson County, and as a model public servant; and
WHEREAS, Robert Thomas had a deep and abiding love for his community,
with a commitment to integrity and transparency, earning him the admira-
tion of his colleagues, competitors and the reporters who covered his
career; and
WHEREAS, Robert Thomas is survived by his wife, Deborah, his daughter,
Michelle and her husband, David Brown, and grandson, Dylan Davis, as
well as stepdaughter, Elizabeth Kilmer, step grandson, Daniel Brown, and
several nieces and nephews; and
WHEREAS, Robert Thomas leaves behind a legacy which will long endure
the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all he
served; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Robert J. Thomas, distinguished citizen and devoted
member of his community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Robert J. Thomas.