Bronislaw "Ben" Stephen Thomas, 97 of Bradenton, FL (formerly South Windsor, CT) passed away peacefully on February 16, 2024 in the care of Lakewood Ranch Hospice, Lakewood Ranch, FL.
He was born in Westfield, MA November 1, 1926, a son of the late Stephen and Stephanie (Bouchowski) Thomas. A superlative educator and entertainer, Ben graduated with a BA from Heart College of Music and enjoyed an early career in theater, where he met Georgette Geraldine Crochiere, who he married February 13, 1954. They enjoyed a life long love affair and partnership preforming together on and off Broadway, touring with the USO and entertaining on Cruise ships. Ben went on to earn his Masters in Education from the University of Connecticut. Ben and Georgette settled in South Windsor, CT where they both began teaching careers and raised their sons, Jeff and Robb.
Ben enjoyed a 30 year career in South Windsor Public Schools teaching 4 th and 5 th grade. They retired to Bradenton, FL where they became active in local theater and church. In later years, Ben turned his creative talents to writing.
Ben was predeceased by his wife Georgette, sons Jeffrey Odilon Thomas and Robin Douglas Thomas, his parents Stephen and Stephanie, his brother William and sister Emma.
He is survived by daughters in law Eileen O'Hanlon Thomas (Jeff) and Eileen Arico Thomas (Robb), grandchildren, Ellen, Joey, Ben, Leo, Max and Zac, and great grandchildren Bridget and James.
A funeral service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, 4030 Manatee Ave. W, Bradenton FL on March 9, 2024 at 10:00am.
Donations may be made to www.Catdepot.org. Arrangements are being handled by Brown and Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel
