Adrian Dean Thomas Jr.

Adrian D. Thomas, Jr., 43, passed away Wednesday January 30, 2019 at Johnson City Medical Center after an extended illness. His loving family was by his side when he took his last breath. He was born July 29, 1975 in Beckley, WV. Adrian was known for his infectious smile and his witty sense of humor. His presence would always “light up the room.” Adrian had several talents and careers throughout his life, but was most proud of acting. He made his acting debut at the Johnson City Community Theatre in “Godspell” where he played ‘Jesus’. He continued stage shows with various theatrical companies, including Rogersville Playhouse, Blue Moon Dinner Theatre, Proud Annie Mystery Theatre, and Jonesboro Repertory Theatre. Adrian was the Artistic Director of Two Pence Productions where he continued to star in and direct several shows. In 2005 Adrian played a role in “Transporter 2” with Jason Statham. In 2006 he was in “Push” with Chazz Palminteri. He was also in “The Shunning”, directed by Michael Landon, Jr. Adrian made his dancing premier in a “Bud Light Commercial” at the 2007 Super Bowl along side Cedric the Entertainer. Adrian played the lead role in “The Watch” which won an Audience Choice Award and Macon Film Festival Award allowing his entrance into the Screen Actor’s Guild. Adrian was a graduate of Shady Spring High School, Shady Spring, WV and attended West Virginia State College. Adrian was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Fred and Betty Thomas; maternal grandparents, Charles and Ella Burgess; cousins, Lonnie McKinney, Jr. and Kenny Burgess; step-sister, Tonya Akers. Those left to cherish his memory are his father, Adrian Thomas, Sr. (Tammy); mother, Brenda Burgess (Lee Glenn); sister, Angela Graham (Matt); brother, Shane Pritchett (Jessica); nieces, Chelsey Kincaid (Chris), Melanie, and Bella, nephews, Andrew, Jacob, and Logan, and several cousins, aunts and uncles, in addition to numerous friends and extended “theatre” family. The family in West Virginia will receive friends 1:00-2:00 pm Monday, February 4, 2019, at the Blue Ridge Mausoleum, Beckley, WV. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 2:00 pm. He will be laid to rest in the Thomas family plot.Another Memorial Service will be held in Johnson City, TN at a later date. Special thanks to the medical staff at ETSU ID and Johnson City Medical Center for their immense support and care.The care of Adrian D. Thomas and his family has been entrusted to the staff of Oak Hill Funeral & Cremation Services, Kingsport, TN.Read Obituary