Lee Thomas
February 5, 1936 - August 31, 2022

Born James Leroy Thomas in Peoria, Illinois, Lee passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning at his home in St. Louis surrounded by his family. He is preceded in death by his mother Dorothy Johanson, stepfather Hildor Johanson, and son Michael (1987). He was the loving husband of forty years to Susan, father of Matthew, Scott (Sara), Deron and Daryl, and loving grandfather to Saige. He was a father-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, and friend to many.

A graduate of Beaumont High School, Lee turned down a four year scholarship to Vanderbilt University, opting instead to sign a minor league contract with the New York Yankees. The rest, as they say, is history.

While Lee had no siblings, he found a second family in baseball. His career in the game spanned over six decades, first as a player and then working through the administrative ranks of Major League Baseball.

Once the news of his cancer diagnosis was known, Lee was humbled by the countless calls and messages left for him, particularly by the baseball community, expressing their concern and well wishes.

Lee, always grateful to those who helped advance his career, took great satisfaction in employing others or recommending them for a job. In lieu of flowers, one way to honor his memory would be to "pay it forward" by helping someone else or by donating to the charity of your choice. In his honor, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 17th, at 11:30am at Holy Redeemer Church in Webster Groves, MO. Private Interment at Resurrection Cemetery.

Ortmann Stipanovich Funeral Home     www.osfuneralhomes.com