Earl Richard Thomas, Jr., (54), La Plata, MD (Mason Springs).

On Saturday, Earl Richard Thomas, Jr., known by most as ("Junior"), of Mason Springs, MD, departed this life to be with the Lord on April 2, 2011, at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C.

Earl was born on March 29, 1957, in Washington, D.C. He was the eldest child of Shirley Marie (Gray) Thomas and the late Earl Richard Thomas, Sr.

He attended Charles County Public Schools before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. in 1977, serving 12 years. After separation from the Marine Corps., he was employed by the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Town of Indian Head, and the Charles County School Board, where he later resigned due to his disabilities.

He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and was especially devoted to his mom. He also enjoyed listening to oldies and dancing.

In addition to his mother, Earl is survived by his Children: Javon Thomas, Latasha Thomas, Lakesha and her husband, Domonique Goode, of Virginia Beach, VA and Anton Wills of Indian Head, MD.; Grandchildren: Shayla Thomas, Anaijah Johnson, Kamiyah Wills, Amari Wills, and Shania Goode; Siblings: Patricia Lynne Thomas, Teri Thomas-Bannister (husband Delmar), Joy Sheff (husband Odell), Eric Thomas (wife Therese), and Kim Kearse (husband Rodney); special friend, Donna Elliott. Earl also has a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Services are being held on Thursday, April 7, 2011, at Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, Maryland, MD, 20640, Visitation from 9:00 am – 11:00 am, Service 11:00 am. Interment, 10am, Friday, April 15, 2011, at Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD.

Arrangements provided by Thornton Funeral Home.