Wayne Thomas

Wayne Thomas, lovingly known as "The Beav," a proud veteran of the United States Navy, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, surrounded by his devoted family. He was 77 years old. Wayne was born on October 12, 1948, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and was raised in Roselle, New Jersey. He graduated from Abraham Clark High School with the Class of 1968. Throughout his life, Wayne was known as a strong, loving, and dependable man - a true pillar in every community he touched, from Roselle and Linden to Pennsylvania and Delaware. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1969 to 1971, a period marked by dedication, discipline, and a deep sense of purpose. Whether in service, work, or family, he gave his all and carried himself with pride. From a young age, Wayne had a passion for music and entertainment. He learned to dance the Mambo and Cha-Cha and brought joy to many, even entertaining notable figures like Tito Puente. As he grew older, he helped organize an R&B singing group called Peace (1970-1973), which later became known as Bingo. Bingo opened for acts like the world-famous Smokey Robinson, The Miracles, The Delfonics, and Kool & the Gang. The group gained recognition on radio stations such as WNJR and worked with producer Joel Diamond, recording songs like "Can't Get Enough." Their talent took them to various communities, spreading music and joy wherever they performed. Wayne also built a remarkable career with Local 825 Operating Engineers, where he worked from 1971 to 2010. He was proud to be one of the first African American lead crane operators - an achievement that reflected his strength, skill, and determination. On July 15, 1978, he married the love of his life, Jonetta D. Thomas, a partnership that would become the cornerstone of everything he built. After retiring in 2010, Wayne fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening "Beav's Long Boom Hot Dogs" with his wife in East Stroudsburg, PA. Operating through 2013, the shop quickly became a beloved local favorite in the Poconos region. Wayne lived a life full of love, laughter, and purpose. He had a unique presence - serious when needed, joyful always, and fully committed to everything he touched. His journey through life was one he carried with pride, and his impact will be felt for generations. He was preceded in death by his father, Wilbur Thomas; his mother, Evelyn Thomas; and his brother, Dan Lee "Danny" Thomas. Wayne leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Jonetta D. Thomas; his children, Michele S. Thomas (husband Sean Overton), Carlton R. Thomas, Rachael Waters, and Dwayne L. Thomas; his sisters, Jacqueline Jenkins, Verna Thomas, and Angela Thomas-Braxton; his grandchildren, Antoine L. Thomas, Joshlyn Holloway, Zaniyah Walton, Dwayne L. Thomas Jr. ("Tank"), Miah A. Thomas, and Jayce R. Thomas; seven great-grandchildren, Antoine L. Thomas Jr., Marcus L. Thomas, Giovani Q. Aristide, Carter A. Thomas, Nyla A. Walton, Salayh Jeter, and Kamari H. Thomas; along with a loving host of nieces and nephews, extended family members, cousins, and dear friends. Wayne "The Beav" Thomas will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. This is not a goodbye, but a celebration of a life well lived.

Wayne Thomas

October 12, 1948 - April 7, 2026

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