Sean Michael Thomas

Sean Michael Thomas, currently of Lynchburg, Virginia, passed away on Thursday March 28th. Sean was loved by so many including his Husband Ross Carnes who survives him in death. They were blessed to have 22 cherished years together. 

Sean was born September 16th, 1953 in Coalville, Utah to Wayne D. Thomas and Margaret R. nee Brusnahan Thomas. He was one of six children. He grew up in Summit County, Peoa, Utah. Where he attended Summit High School. Sean served an LDS mission in Dublin, Ireland. 

Sean was an avid lover of the theater, and the arts. He shared this love with his community as a member of the Salt Lake Community Theater where he made and sustained many amazing friendships. Those friends were and are considered a part of his family. His dedication to this program was unmatched as he created a home filled with sewing, painting, and craftsmanship getting ready for many productions. He was always so proud that he learned to sew and create beautiful costumes that brought those characters to life on the stage!

Sean attended Westminster College where he pursued an education in Play Writing and Theater, but really Sean was a student of life. He drank up knowledge where he could and would surprise you with the most profound details on any subject. He especially loved History and endeavored to learn all he could and to teach those around him. One of his favorite quotes from the beginning of Les Miserables by Leo Tolstoy says, “So long as ignorance and misery remain on earth, there should be a need for books such as this.”

Sean enjoyed a rewarding career as a teacher of special education at East High School in Salt Lake City, Utah. When he retired from teaching, he began his most important job of all as Santa Claus. He could always be seen wearing red and enchanting children wherever he went with proof that the magic of Christmas is real.

Sean leaves behind a legacy and is survived by his children (with Julie Moore): Jennifer Marie Thomas-Littell (Shawn), Erinn Kathleen Thomas-Hardin, Mariah D. Aguirre (Giancarlo), Andrew Jorge (Devon) Davidson Thomas. Then his step children Merritt Celeste and Oliver Carnes. His grandchildren: J. Michael, Emily, Bex, Alyssa, Fiona, Kaysen, Kenya, Penelope, and Kynlee. A great-granddaughter Vera. And his brother Wayne Thomas, Jr. In addition to his parents, Sean is preceded in death by his Siblings, Patrick, Kathleen, David and Sharon.

We are choosing not to hold a service at this time but will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date in Utah where his family and friends can attend. Details will be shared at such a time.

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, VA is assisting the family.