Dr. Robert Jerome Thomas, age 58, of India Drive, Ashland, Kentucky, passed away Friday, June 18, 2010, in Alpena, Michigan. He was born August 26, 1951, in Hazel Park, Michigan, and is the son of Louella Ward Thomas of Morehead, Kentucky, and John Carl Thomas, who passed away April 15, 2004. Besides his father, Robert was preceded in death by a brother, Ruben F. D. Thomas, on January 19, 2006, and a nephew, Edward Earhart on September 11, 2001. In addition to his mother, -Jerry,- as he was referred to by family, is also survived by two brothers, Leslie Thomas and wife Toni of Spruce, Michigan, and John W. Thomas and wife Rhonda of Mt. Sterling, Kentucky; two sisters, Charlotte Thomas Earhart and husband Tom of Winchester, Kentucky, and Claudette Thomas of Morehead, Kentucky; one sister-in-law, Lorna Thomas of Morehead, Kentucky; and several nieces and nephews. Due to his ongoing quest for knowledge, Robert spent 25 years in academic settings earning several degrees. A two-time graduate of Morehead State University, he earned a B.S. in Biology in 1973 and an M.S. in Animal Physiology in 1975. In 1981 he received the Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition from the University of Kentucky, and in 1983, he was awarded the M.D. from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. He completed his residence at Spartanburg (S.C.) Regional Hospital from 1983-1986. Since 1986, Dr. Thomas was in private practice at the Family Medicine Center and had hospital privileges at Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital, both in Ashland, Kentucky. At the hospital, he had served as Chief of Department of Family Practice, Chief of Department of Pediatrics, Secretary, Vice Chief of Staff and Chief of Staff. In addition to his medical career, Dr. Thomas also served in numerous leadership positions and was recognized for his many contributions to Masonic affiliated organizations during the past 38 years. A member of Morehead Masonic Lodge No. 654 since 1972, he was its Worshipful Master in 1980; Past District Deputy Grand Master, 2002-2003; and Past President, Society of Past Masters of East-Central Kentucky. He was also active in the York Rite of Freemasonry, the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, and several Masonic bodies based on meritorious service to the fraternity and to humanity. In addition to his philanthropy and serving others in many different venues, Robert thoroughly enjoyed deer hunting. His family, however, was always foremost in his commitment and love. Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 24, 2010, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with Dr. J. D. Reeder officiating. Burial will follow in the Hamilton Cemetery with Masonic Rites conducted by Morehead Masonic Lodge No. 654. Pallbearers: Leslie C. Thomas II, J. Caleb Thomas, Ethan K. Thomas, Ian Thomas, Joshua Erni, and Benjamin Thomas. Honorary Pallbearers: Matthew Thomas, Christopher Thomas, and Ruben Thomas. Visitation is from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Wednesday, June 23, 2010, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals. Commandery and Scottish Rite Services will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Knights Templar Eye Foundation, William G. Hinton, Grand Recorder, P. O. Box 695, Shelbyville, KY 40066 or Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital Auxiliary, 2000 St. Christopher Drive, Ashland, KY 41101. Visitation: Wednesday, June 23, 2010, 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. Funeral: Thursday, June 24, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. Interment: Hamilton Cemetery