Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

June 14, 2026

 Herman Edward Thomas, 98, a native of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 14, leaving behind a life defined by service, devotion, and family.

Herman shared 62 loving years of marriage with his beloved wife, Jeanne Brice Thomas, who left us in 2014. He was a devoted father and grandfather and is survived by his son, Ed and wife Mary Ann, and their children Marie, Stuart, and Ann Carmen; daughter Cordelia (De) Thomas Blumberg and husband Noah, and their children Delia and Hank, and extended family members.

“Papa” (as he is lovingly referred to by his grandkids) will be remembered for his quick wit and humor. He never let a chance to throw out a one-liner or tell a funny story pass him by (even though one may occasionally challenge the accuracy of the story’s details!). Despite living through the Great Depression and proudly serving in the Korean War, he never lost that sunny outlook — he could find something to laugh about no matter what, whether on the golf course (he had it down to a 3-handicap in his best days, and claimed “The Golf Channel” was one of TV’s greatest ideas) or anywhere else. His Charlotte Tech High School yearbook quote, “All good men are dying, I feel fine,” says it all: a classic old joke he flipped to stay upbeat, and that same wit carried him through his whole life.

Jeanne and Herman were married at Selwyn Avenue Presbyterian Church on April 12, 1952 — exactly five days after he returned from Korea. They also both sang in the Chancel Choir at Selwyn for over 50 years and he loved that “little Church there on the corner of Brandywine and Selwyn”.

Herman’s family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the wonderful and loving Assisted Living nursing team at Brookdale Carriage Club, especially Carolina, Maxine and Sherita, with whom he developed a special bond over the last few years. 

A memorial service celebrating Herman’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Selwyn Avenue Presbyterian Church, with a reception to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Herman’s memory to his beloved Selwyn Avenue Presbyterian Church (2929 Selwyn Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28209).

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, Charlotte, NC; Online condolences may be shared at kennethpoeservices.com.