Father Kenneth Thomas
January 29, 1927 ~ September 3, 2024
Born in:
Bridgeport, CT
Resided in:
East Haven, CT
Father Kenneth Thomas, a beloved Episcopal priest known for his compassionate pastoral care and inspiring sermons, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2024, in East Haven, Connecticut. He was 97 years old.
Born on January 29, 1927, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to the late Kenneth and Bessie Wilcox Thomas. Kenneth grew up with a deep sense of faith and community. He demonstrated his commitment to service early on by joining the United States Army, where he served bravely as a Sergeant during World War II and the Korean War.
After his military service, Kenneth pursued higher education at Trinity College in Hartford. He felt a calling to the priesthood and continued his studies at the General Theological Seminary in New York City. In 1955, he was ordained as an Episcopal priest, beginning a lifelong journey of ministry and spiritual guidance.
Father Thomas served his congregation faithfully at several parishes throughout his career. He began his ministry at Trinity Church and St. Paul’s Church in Hartford before moving to St. John’s Church in Essex, Connecticut, where he served for 28 years.
Upon his retirement in 1991, Father Thomas continued his ministry for another 20 years as a priest-associate at Christ Church Episcopal in New Haven. His dedication to his faith extended beyond his parish work. He was also a Priest Associate of the Order of the Holy Cross, further exemplifying his commitment to spiritual life and community service.
Father Thomas’ legacy of faith, service, and kindness will continue to inspire and guide those he served throughout his long and fruitful life.
Friends are invited to a Requiem Mass beginning at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 26 in Christ Church Episcopal, 84 Broadway, New Haven, CT, 06511. Bishop Jeffrey W. Mello will officiate. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Kenneth’s memory may be sent to Christ Church. Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Ave, Hamden in care of arrangements. To leave a condolence, please see obituary at www.beecherandbennett.com.
Thank you. ❤️
One of the really great priests. Gentle and supportive of me as I started out and a friend and colleague as I became more experienced. Never a harsh word, always wise. Well done good and faithful servant.
Father Ken Thomas was one of the interviewers as I went through the diocesan discernment process for ordination, and I still remember his penetrating questions and kind manner. As it turned out, he was the preacher for the diaconal ordinations that took place on June 14, 1980 at Christ Church Cathedral when I and seven others (including Peter Stebinger, who left the previous tribute) were ordained. It was Fr. Ken’s 25th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood, and his sermon was full of grace and insight. He was a faithful priest all his days. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
Thanks for your service 🙏🙏🙏