Raymond J. Thomas, 55, Minot, died Saturday, March 24, 2018 in a Minot Hospital surrounded by family.

Raymond was born June 2, 1962 at Philipsburg, PA, the son of William and Sandra (Fullington) Thomas. He was raised and educated in Frewsburg, New York, where he graduated from Frewsburg High School in 1980.

Raymond entered into active duty service with the U.S. Air Force in August of 1980 and honorably served his country for 26 years, beginning at Homestead Air Force Base in Florida and Keflavik AFB in Iceland, before coming to Minot Air Force Base in 1987 working with the Aerospace ground equipment until 2006. He continued at Minot Air Force Base in civil service work on the Rivet Mile until his death. Raymond was once married to his love, Cindy Hillestad. From this union, together they had three children, whom he loved very much, Levi, Nichole and Billy.

He was a member of the Frewsburg American Legion Post #556 and former member of the Association Motorcycle Club and Minot Moose Lodge. He enjoyed riding his beloved Harley Davidson motorcycle, throwing darts, shooting pool, cooking and spending time with his family.

His loving family includes , children, Levi Hillestad, Minot, Nichole Blanner, Minot, Billy Thomas of Minot; grandchildren, Nikalya, Jayden and Axel; mother, Sandra Thomas, Frewsburg, NY; brother, Tim Thomas, Fairborn, OH; sisters, Laurie (Mike) Greene, Frewburg, OH, Faith (Jason) Mahle, Revenna, OH; along with several nieces and nephews.

Graveside service with Military Honors: in his hometown of Frewsburg, NY in Maple Grove Cemetery later in the Spring.
At his request there will not be a local service.
There will be a Visitation and Book signing on Thursday, March 29, 2018 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.