Rooney Lee Thomas Sr.

Rooney Lee Thomas, Sr., a beloved father, grandfather, and respected member of the landscaping community, passed away on April 13, 2026, at the age of 73. Born on January 3, 1953, in Miami, Florida, Rooney lived a life marked by dedication to his family and profession. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force and worked for many years as a reputable tree cutter, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and clients alike. 

Rooney was a cherished father to his daughters, Erica Thomas Wynn, and Ebony Thomas, and a devoted grandfather to his granddaughter, Kierra Dickens, and great-grandson, Kyndall Dickens and the love of his life, Sybil Thomas. He also leaves behind a host of grandkids, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who will fondly remember him. 

Rooney is preceded in death by his parents, Russell Lee and Mamie Lee Thomas, and his siblings: Robert (Bob) James Thomas, Larry White, John Thomas, and Diane Thomas. He is survived by his brother, Roderick Thomas, and sister, Celinda Thomas, favorite niece Carmen Thomas, as well as a remarkable network of family and friends, including his late grandmother Rosie Lee Cooper Thomas, his treasured late nephew Derrick Thomas, and sister-in-law Earlyne M. Thomas of St. Louis, Missouri. 

The family will hold a graveside service to honor Rooney’s memory on April 28, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, located at 5525 US Hwy 1 N, Mims, FL 32754. Those who wish to pay their respects and celebrate his life are warmly invited to attend. 

Rooney Lee Thomas, Sr. will be remembered not only for his contributions to his community and profession but also for the love and guidance he provided to his family throughout his life.

My father was the kind of man who was going to do things his way—bullheaded, stubborn, and determined even when nobody could tell him otherwise. But beneath that hard exterior was a man with a soft heart, one who loved deeply, gave freely, and always wanted the people he loved to feel cared for. He made sure his daughters knew they were loved, and great-grandson felt joy in his presence, and even those from chapters of his past still felt the love he carried. He may not have always listened, but he never stopped loving, and that is how I will always remember him.

“Daddy, your life reminded us that a kind heart can leave a bigger imprint than a perfect one. You loved freely, gave endlessly, and even through your imperfections, you never stopped being a light to the people blessed enough to know you. Though your journey ended in a way our hearts were not prepared for, the love you poured into this world will continue to live long after you.”