David Thomas Obituary

David Thomas WADMALAW ISLAND - David Alan Thomas (70), of Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, October 5, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born July 8, 1955 in Homestead, Pennsylvania to Bernice Jane (Pfeifer) and Edgar Aber Thomas. David proudly embarked on a lifelong career of volunteer service as a junior volunteer firefighter in Munhall, then as an active member of Cochran Hose Fire Company for 25 years. He also served on the Board of Directors for Valley Ambulance Authority and Sewickley Valley Hospital Credit Union. He graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Western Pennsylvania Hospital School of Respiratory Therapy, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1977. After graduating, he built a fulfilling career as Director of Respiratory Therapy at Heritage Valley Health System. In 1996, he sustained a spinal cord injury, after which he transitioned into a new position as a Clinical Analyst, continuing until his retirement in 2017. On October 22, 1977, David married the love of his life, Cynthia Louise Church, in Ligonier, Pennsylvania. Together they built an admirable legacy, and raised two children, Emily and Paul, and later Elizabeth Sparks, a foster daughter. David is survived by his beloved wife, Cindy, of nearly 48 years; children, Emily, Paul (Rebekah), Elizabeth (Keith); grandchildren, Elijah, Olive, Margaret, Juliet, and Eloise; sibling, William (Patricia); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. David touched countless lives through his kindness, wisdom, generosity, and humor. A celebration of life will be held at 2 PM on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at Saint John's Episcopal Church, 3673 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, SC 29455. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the following organizations supporting causes that were close to David's heart: Save the Music Foundation, Coastal Conservation League, Charleston County Parks Foundation, or your local volunteer fire department. David's love lives on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.