NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Clifton Richard "Sonny" Thomas, son of the late Clifton A. Thomas and Vera (Kent) Thomas of North Adams, Mass., passed quietly in his sleep with family at his side on Saturday, April 25, 2020. 

Born on May 3, 1933, he was the oldest of six children and was predeceased by his brothers, Robert Thomas, Donald Wright and Henry Wright, and his sister, Nancy Scalise. He leaves behind his youngest sister, Shirley Goodell of Bennington, Vt.

Clifton was raised in North Adams, attending local schools until enlisting in the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division. A proud veteran of the Korean Conflict, he served from 1951 through 1954. Upon his return, he was united in holy matrimony to Constance Joyce (Hurlbut) Thomas on January 11, 1958.

Clifton worked in local industry until he joined the Laborers International Union local 473. He was honored with a "50 Year Membership Certificate" for 50 years of continuous, dedicated service. He worked as a laborer and foreman for J.H. Maxymillian Construction for more than 25 years before retiring in 1995. After retirement, Clifton and Constance spent many winters in Florida before moving to Port Richey, Fla. They returned to North Adams last May due to Clifton’s failing health.

Clifton was a communicant of St. Francis of Assisi Church, the American Legion Post 125, VFW Post 996, ELKS Lodge #487 and the Greylock Community Club all in North Adams. While living in the Senate Manor in Florida, he was head of security, Neighborhood Watch for a few years. Clifton enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing cards. His real joy was being surrounded by family and friends, especially the grandkids and great grand-babies, where everyone knew him as Poppy or Pop.

Clifton is survived by his wife Constance of 62 years; son Michael Thomas of Vergennes, Vt.; and daughters Sonya Shea, Shelly Davine and Karen Buffkin, all of North Adams Mass. He was predeceased by his son, Stephen Thomas. He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and a host of loving nieces and nephews.

May his memory, influence and presence remain in the lives of everyone who knew and cherished him.

Funeral notice: A memorial service for Clifton Thomas will be at a day and time to be announced at Flynn and Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals West Chapels, 521 West Main Street North Adams, Mass. Burial will be private. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in care of the funeral home. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.