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Charles Thomas Obituary

Thomas Sr., Charles R. Born in Evanston, IL on June 6, 1933, Dr. Thomas was one of five children of William Roosevelt and Daisy Alma Thomas. He departed this life in Lincolnshire, IL on January 22, 2010 after a lengthy illness. After receiving All-State honors in football and track at Evanston Township High School, he received a four-year athletic scholarship to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He co-captained the UW track team and earned a degree in education. After being named All-America Honorable Mention in football, he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1956. After serving in the U.S. Army, Thomas returned to ETHS where he made history as the first African-American teacher at the school, teaching Social Studies, serving as a Homeroom Director and coaching football and track. Dr. Thomas later earned a Masters and PhD. in educational administration at Northwestern University. After two years as an Evanston middle-school principal, he became Assistant State Superintendent of Public Instruction for the State of Illinois, managing the Chicago office. He later served for 16 years as Superintendent of the North Chicago schools and two additional years as Superintendent of North Chicago's consolidated K-12 school district. Charles met his first wife, Ruth Marie Thomas (now deceased) while in high school. To this union two sons were born, Charles Jr. and Markham Wilson. Ruth Marie died in 1977. In September of 1981, he married Juanita Bronaugh. Dr. Thomas resided in Glencoe, IL for nearly 50 years. Being committed to education, mentoring young people and serving the community, he became a charter member of the Chessman Club of the North Shore, Inc., an organization dedicated to activities providing service to the community, including awarding scholarships to youths and giving Christmas baskets to the needy. A memorial service commemorating the life of Dr. Thomas will be held on Saturday, February 6, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at Second Baptist Church, 1717 Benson Ave., Evanston , IL.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Feb. 4, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
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Bonnie Fox Terchin

May 4, 2022

I am so sorry I never know that Dr Thomas had passed away....I was reminiscing about the best teachers I have ever had at school....including ETHS and my 5 college years, and Dr Thomas was among the VERY BEST. I remember him explaining syllogisms and thinking fallacies....the logic and reasoning has stayed with me all my life. I loved his cool way of stimulating us to think in my civics/history class. What an amazing legacy he has left. As a 31-year teacher, I think much of my love for my profession and the true realization of how deeply we can affect our students' lives came from this lovely, wonderful man. I am only sorry I was so late in this remembrance. Thank you, Dr. Thomas, for being a part of my formative years and making me a better person.

Ruth Gross

July 3, 2010

I learned of Charlie Thomas's passing only today when I received the ETHS alumni newsletter. It saddened me greatly to know that "Mr. Thomas" had suffered a "lengthy illness" and was no longer there to inspire and lead, as he did for so many years. He was my World Civilization teacher when I was a freshman in 1961 and I have never forgotten him both as a teacher and as a friend. He accomplished great things in his life, but perhaps none greater than influencing so many young minds and teaching them humanity. My condolences to his family.

Marvin Edwards

June 11, 2010

I accidentally learned of the passing of Charles today which is 41/2 months after his death. I was aware of his illness but was shocked learning of his passing. Charles was a mentor for me and others who admired his work for many years. He was a man that I used as a model to mold my own professional life. It was his early leadership as a trail blazer, that gave men like myself the courage to follow in his foot steps. This country has lost a great man, one who will be greatly missed by many who have benefited by his touching their lives. I send my condolences to Juanita and his sons and their families. I regret not having the opportunity to express my sympathy in person at the time of his passing.

Marty Wise

February 10, 2010

I am shocked and saddened to learn of your loss, Juanita.

I extend to you and your children my condolences, prayers and good wishes.

Howard Falk

February 5, 2010

Dr. Charles Thomas was a man among men. He was truly a wonderful individual who never said an unkind word about anyone. The world will truly miss him and his laughter. He will never be forgotten. He brought joy to a great many people and was a wonderful teacher and administrator. He was one of a kind.

Elaine & Norm Semrau

February 4, 2010

Dr. Thomas was a warm and engaging gentleman. As Superintendent of North Chicago schools, he was respected and admired by many. Our deepest sympathy to his family.

February 4, 2010

I had then Mr. Thomas as a Civics teacher when he first came to Evanston. He was a good teacher and tried to inspire the laggards in the class to "get with it". I also followed him to the University of Wisconsin where i know he played football, and I followed him into Educational Administration having a 40 year career in school admin myself. He made a difference in my life.

dick yankow, oak park

Bob Rosenberg

February 4, 2010

I remember Charlie from high school, though I was at New Trier. We were at UW-Madison together where I was greatly relieved to have him on my side of the ball. He was a wonderful man who will be missed.

Stephen & Lyn Sills

February 4, 2010

What a wonderful man who will be missed by many, especially his friends from the University of Wisconsin Alumni Association. Truly a great Badger!

God bless Charles and Junita.

Lyn & Steve Sills

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