Obituary: Gary E. Thomas
Portland Typesetter and Long‑time Community Member Gary E. Thomas Dies at 81
PORTLAND – Gary E. Thomas, a longtime resident of Portland and a former typesetter for the Waterville Morning Sentinel and Portland Press Herald, died on Sept. 10, 2026, surrounded by his family. The 81‑year‑old was born on March 30, 1945, in Waterville and grew up on West Street in Fairfield, a short walk from Lawrence High School, where he graduated in 1963.
Thomas’s life was defined by close ties to family, a love of music and the outdoors, and a steady career in print. He was the son of Ruth L. Thomas and Kenneth A. Thomas, a U.S. Army World War II veteran. He was an only child who treasured the company of his grandmother Mildred and often visited her to ask for money or a favor. His grandfather Ernest was a familiar figure in the family’s summer camp at Sheepscot Lake, where the elders would sit beneath a shaded tree while the rest cooled off in a kidney‑shaped pool.
Gary married Linda Allard, and together they raised two children: a son, Gary A. Thomas Jr., affectionately nicknamed “Nicko,” who now lives in Biddeford, and a daughter, Heidi R. Johns, whose husband Patrick resides in Portland. He often recalled fishing trips on Moose River that left both him and Nicko with numerous black fly bites, and winter snowmobiling adventures in Bethel. On Sundays, he would play his vinyl collection—spanning 1950s Doo‑Wop, Johnny Cash, and especially Elvis Presley—for Heidi, delighting in the crackle of his record player and the glow of his carefully arranged speakers.
Thomas worked as a typesetter for many years in the composing rooms of the Morning Sentinel and the Press Herald, where he developed a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship. After retiring, he enjoyed walking on sunny beach afternoons and attending live music shows with his family. He was a self‑described night owl who favored late‑night movies and had a particular fascination with classic cars, often admiring Corvettes on the street. A devoted animal lover, he would pause to pet any dog that crossed his path.
He was also a passionate Boston Celtics fan, eagerly anticipating each new basketball season and cheering “Let’s Go Celtics!” with his friends and family.
Thomas’s wife Linda pre‑deceased him; his mother Ruth passed away at the age of 51, an event that left a lasting impact on him. He expressed that he was never the same after her loss. His father Ken’s wartime service also shaped his worldview.
The family will hold a private burial in the fall at Lakeview Cemetery in Oakland. Thomas will be laid to rest beside his mother Ruth, whose gravesite is nearby. In a heartfelt tribute, a family member whispered, “Daddy, may you forever rest in peace beside the beautiful still lake.”
Gary E. Thomas leaves behind his children, grandchildren, and a community that will miss his steady presence, his love of music, and the warmth he brought to every family gathering. His legacy as a dedicated professional, devoted family man, and lifelong friend will endure in Portland and beyond.
