It is with heavy hearts that the family of Gary Clifford Thomas announce his passing at the Sussex Health Centre on March 6, 2026 at the age of 71.
Born in Sussex on April 6, 1954; he was the son of the late Clifford and Florence (Brown) Thomas.
A truck driver his entire life, he worked for Kingsco until 2021 before driving for Dial-A-Ride in Sussex until 2025. He also found joy in simple pleasures—watching a good heartfelt movie or an episode of The Golden Girls.
Known to many as a steady presence and a true friend, he was a giver at heart and a rock to those who needed him most. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a beaming smile. You could not help but smile when you saw him.
He rarely arrived without a bag of cheesies for his granddaughter Harper, a small tradition that perfectly reflected his playful spirit and the deep love he had for his family. A loving Dad and proud Grampy, his grandchildren thought the world of him, and he loved them just as fiercely in return.
His heart for people was evident in the many friendships he built across the province and in his faithful volunteer work with the Salvation Army kettle and Outflow. For many years he attended Apohaqui Community Church, a place he loved and where he found great community and belonging.
He will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched.
He will live on in the hearts of his sons: Shawn Thomas (Megen) of Wards Creek and Cory Cunningham of Newtown and by his chosen son, Henry Klassen (Sara); his sister, Janet Ross (Keith) of Fredericton; his grandchildren: Brooklyn, Addison, Viviane, Owen, Harper, Hazel, Dorkus, Marcella, Malachi and Olivia; his special cousin, Glendon Thomas; as well as several cousins, extended family members and Friends.
Along with his parents, he is predeceased by his special dog, Puddin
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex, NB (506-433-1176) from where visitation will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 from 4-7pm. A Celebration of Gary’s life will be held from Wallace Community Chapel on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 11:00am.
Donations in memory of Gary may be made to Lifebuilders Inc. or a charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through wallacefuneralhome.com.
The family would like to express their deepest thanks to the staff of the Sussex Health Centre for all the kindness, care and support in his final days.