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Paul Raymond Thomas
Paul Raymond Thomas, 75, of Bradenton and formerly of Anna Maria Island and Cortez, died Aug. 23.
He was born June 24, 1950, in Ashtabula, Ohio, and moved as a young boy with his family to Florida, where he enjoyed a lifetime of adventures, particularly surfing and sailing in the beautiful waters surrounding his home in Manatee County.
He had a passion for service to others, having served his country in the U.S. Army and Navy. His kindness, compassion, generosity and joyful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A celebration of life will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Griffith-Cline Funeral Home, 720 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. The family asks that donations be made to Tidwell Hospice of Manatee County for the loving and compassionate care that Mr. Thomas received during his last days.
Mr. Thomas is survived by his partner Patti Knowles; sister Betsy Parker of Bradenton; brother Tim of West Virginia; lifelong friend, Bob Pitt; and many other cherished friends and relatives.