Kevin Thomas died peacefully with his family present on January 27, 2025, after a period of declining health.

William Kevin Thomas was born to George and Genevieve and was the middle of seven children. The family lived in Belmont and Newton. Kevin attended Boston University where he studied Education and played Basketball. During his college career, he was renowned for his exceptional hook shot and maintained the title of leading scorer for 11 years, amassing a total of 1,138 points. He still holds the single game record for rebounds in a game, thirty-four against Boston College and field goals made in a game, twenty-one verses Rutgers. After graduating in 1956 he was drafted by the Rochester Royals of the NBA. He played professionally for two years, traveling around the country with the Harlem Globetrotters. He completed his M.Ed. from BU. Kevin was inducted into the BU Hall of Fame in 1966; later his #4 was retired.

Kevin was married for nearly 60 years to the love of his life, Elinor Schofield, until her passing in 2019. They started their life together in Dedham with their two children Betsy and Billy. They then resided in Winchester where Kevin was part of the team that started the Winchester Youth Basketball League, something he was very proud of. He was a career educator and taught Social Studies in Ayer, at Catholic Memorial in West Roxbury and at Wakefield High School.

After retiring, he and Elinor moved to Woburn. Here he was frustrated with golf, challenged by volunteer work, stimulated by travel, and enchanted by Grandparenting. Faith was a cornerstone for Kevin and Elinor, and they were instrumental in keeping their beloved Sacred Heart open when it was threatened with closure.

Kevin was predeceased by his wife of 60 years Elinor (Schofield). He is survived by his children Betsy and her husband Kevin Austin of Worcester, Bill and his wife Michelle Thomas of Chelmsford; his grandchildren Ashley and her husband Ryan, Matt, Sean, and Sam; his great-grandsons Calvin and Walker; as well as his brother Alan, his sister Ellen, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

We will miss his steady presence, dry sense of humor, and passionate support of the underdog and will cherish our memories of cross-country adventures and annual trips to Long Beach in Rockport.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Habitat for Humanity. Dad volunteered with them and supported the mission and values that the organization represents. We would like to thank New Horizons Assisted Living, Mary Ann Morse Healthcare and Constellation Hospice for their care of Dad in his final years.

Services will be held at Sacred Heart Parish in Lexington on Monday February 10th. The family will be greeting those celebrating the wonderful life of this kind and loving man at 10 am, with a Mass to follow at 11:00 am.