Richard Cooper Thomas passed away on September 30, 2023, surrounded by his family. Born in Wenona, Maryland on October 13, 1937, he was the son of the late Cooper Henry and Leila Webster Thomas. Richard began working the day after he graduated from high school and worked full time until he was 80 years old. He was an honorable and valued employee wherever he worked. He began at Chris-Craft Boats and retired from Lowe's, but his favorite job was with Safeway where he served as store manager. He also worked as a store manager with Meatland after Safeway closed its stores on the Eastern Shore. He was a faithful provider, and his motto was, "Work hard and be honest." He loved music, his yard, animals, Christmas, the newspaper, watching sports, and early mornings. He was hardworking, steady, honest, witty, dependable, and handy. Richard is survived by his wife of 65 years, Miriam Messenger Thomas, daughter Cheryl McKelvey and her husband Ronald, and daughter Linda Morgan and her husband Rob. He was blessed with seven grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren: Kristin (Brian) Shockley and their children Gavin, Madelyn, Owen, Benjamin, Alaine, Macie, and Judah; Ryan (Sarah) McKelvey and their children Eve, Honora, Peter, Paul, Katrina, and Joanna; Amy Morgan and her daughters Isabel and Ivy; Andrew Morgan; Kaitlyn (Andrew) Robb and their children Caleb and Eleanor; Alec (Annie) Morgan; and Rebekah McKelvey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Margaret "Peggy" Daniels, and his brother, John Henry Thomas, Sr. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 pm on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Immanuel Baptist Church at 1514 Old Ocean City Road in Salisbury. Pastor Andrew Morgan will officiate. Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.