Robert Fitzgerald Thomas

Robert Fitzgerald “Fitz” Thomas, the beloved son and only child, of Mr. Robert E. Thomas and Mrs. Irene B. Thomas, was born on February 15, 1965 in Raleigh, NC at Wake Medical Hospital.  He departed this earthly life and put on his heavenly wings on April 7, 2021.

As an elementary student, he was one of the many Black students who were bused to schools far from their own neighborhoods to distant schools as school officials worked to create racial balance in the schools.  This meant that Fitzgerald and his friends had to arise very early and travel far on the school bus. This program resulted in his attending three elementary schools and East Millbrook Middle School before reaching high school.  Although he never liked those long bus rides, his parents supported him and encouraged him. He, then, resolved to make the best of it and excel.

He was truly happy when he was assigned to the renowned Broughton High School in Raleigh. It was there that he began to soar, even though he had always been an excellent student.  There he was a scholar and an athlete.  He was inducted into the Service Club, the French Club, the Afro-American History Club and starred on the Track Team.  Since he was such an excellent speaker, his Senior Classmates selected him to introduce the Senior Graduation Speaker.

Following graduation from Broughton High School, Fitzgerald attended NC A&T State University at Greensboro to pursue studies in Political Science.  He was awarded the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science in 1987.

Soon after graduation, Fitzgerald relocated to Washington, DC. where he joined the staff of the Berlitz School of International Languages.  With colleagues from around the world, he developed a deep interest in other cultures.  Therefore, he continued his Political Science studies at a higher level and resolved to learn more foreign languages.  He added Spanish and Portuguese to his repertoire and became fluent in both.  To refine his French, he studied in France and took a total French immersion course in Quebec, Canada.

Wanting to broaden his horizon, Fitzgerald moved from Washington, DC to Miami, Florida to accept a position with Bloomingdale’s International Division.  He loved the position and often joked about the fun he had seeing people’s reaction to a young Black man conversing with them in their native language.  He always said, “Their reaction is priceless!”  

Fitzgerald, aka Fitz, was an avid reader who could converse intelligently on many topics, especially politics, health, education, science, race relations and more.  He loved riding his bicycle or walking.  He also loved substitute teaching and tutoring young people. He was a gifted pianist who played beautifully by ear

He was a dapper dresser and refined gentleman.  He was also a cool dancer who could cut a mean step on the dance floor, from ballroom dance to hip hop.  Many a dance partner were shocked.  He had an engaging smile, loved his family and friends, and never met a stranger.

His loving survivors are:  Parents, Mr. Robert E. and Mrs. Irene B. Thomas of the home; Aunts, Mrs. Margaret F. Strother of Washington, DC, Mrs. Lucille T. Lea of Raleigh, NC, Mrs. Annie Pearl Willis of Detroit, MI, Mrs. Dorothy Sanders of Colorado Springs, CO, Mrs. Betty King and Mrs. Thelma Palmer of Hemingway, SC, and Mrs. Liva Dell Quick of Hamlet, NC. Uncles, Mr. Milton Bailey (Josephine) of Raleigh, NC, Mr. Ervin T Thomas (Carol) of Los Angeles, CA, Mr. Ben J. Thomas (Shelia) of Summerville, SC, and a Sister/Cousin, Mrs. Robbin Calloway of Seattle, WA, and a host of relatives and friends.  

We loved you dearly Fitz and will miss you deeply.  May you rest in peace with our Lord and Savior.        

Funeral Service:  12:00 PM, Friday, April 16, 2021 at  Lea Funeral Home Chapel, 2500 Poole Road, Raleigh, NC.

Visitation: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Friday, April 16, 2021, preceding the service in the chapel.  

Interment  Carolina Biblical Gardens, Garner, NC

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