William P Thomas

Celebration of Life for William P. Thomas

January 3, 1928 – May 22, 2026

William P. Thomas, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and brother, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, at his home in Waretown, New Jersey, surrounded by love and family. He was 98.

Born on January 3, 1928, in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, William lived almost his entire life in Bayonne, where he was raised alongside his brother, Al Thomas. The brothers shared a lifetime of fond memories and stories that William loved to recall.

In April 1946, William was drafted into the United States Army, serving one year with the Army Air Corps. Stationed in the Philippines, he served as a radio operator, a role that required focus and precision and one he carried out with quiet pride.

In 1947, William married the love of his life, Joyce Perry. Together they built a life centered on family, raising their children, Lori and Billy, and sharing decades of devotion and companionship.

William spent his career at Western Electric, where he worked in management for many years. Shortly after high school, he briefly worked at Leo’s Men’s Shop in Bayonne, an early experience that sparked a lifelong appreciation for men’s fashion. Known for always being impeccably dressed in a sport coat and slacks, his classic style was part of who he was.

In 2022, William moved to Waretown to live with his daughter Lori and his devoted son-in-law, Dominick Cerro, who lovingly cared for him in his final days. William was deeply proud of this home and grateful to be surrounded by family.

Above all, William was a devoted grandfather, lovingly known as “Pop.” He was a constant and meaningful presence in the lives of his grandchildren, deeply involved, attentive, and proud. He was also a deeply loved uncle, cherished by his nieces and nephews and their families.

William enjoyed watching the Hallmark Channel, traveling with Joyce on bus trips and cruises, and occasional visits to Atlantic City. He cherished memories of summers in Ocean Grove, loved crafts and making floral centerpieces for family events, and delighted in sharing stories of the old days and family history tracing their roots to Wales and Scotland.

William was predeceased by his beloved wife Joyce, his daughter Lori, and his son Billy.

He is survived by his brother Al Thomas and sister-in-law Pat Thomas; his son-in-law Dominick Cerro; his grandchildren Robin Schork (husband Tommy), Ryan Cerro (wife Stephanie), and Sean Cerro (wife Tasha); and his great-grandchildren Thomas, Chelsea, Santino, Tessa, Lucia, Dominick, Dario, and Malia.

William was a kind, gentle man who adored his family. His presence, love, and legacy will be remembered always.

Celebration of Life Service Information

Family and friends are invited to celebrate William’s life at Layton’s Home for Funerals,
250 Lacey Road, Forked River, New Jersey.
Viewing: May 26, 4:00–7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in William’s memory.

As William rode his stair lift up to his loft, he would happily sing “So long, farewell,” offering a big wave and an even bigger smile.
And so we say to him now—so long, farewell, until we meet again.

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