Richard Mahar Thomas Jr.

Richard Mahar Thomas Jr., passed away unexpectedly on May 4, 2024, in Cedar Park, Texas. He was born on January 7, 1952, in St. Louis, Missouri, to his beloved parents, Richard Mahar Thomas Sr. and Jo Ann Thomas. 

Richard was the oldest of six siblings and graduated from Parkway West High School in 1970. He went on to complete some studies at Southwest Missouri State. He then pursued his passion of photography which led him to Queens, NY where he lived and flourished as a fashion photographer for 10 years. Among his adventures, was a photoshoot in Kenya, Africa. Richard lived in several places throughout his life, including Los Angeles and Germany. While in LA, Richard continued his work in photography and videography. He worked with SELF magazine. Some of his first photoshoots were with models, Kelly LeBrock and Patti Hansen. Some of his work even appeared in the magazine Mademoiselle. Richard also worked with Kate Spade and was the main videographer for Billy Squire. Richard finally relocated to Texas where he continued his love of photography by working at Precision Camera and Video in Austin. While in Texas, he cultivated many friendships but he maintained his life-long friendships with Matt McGuire, Ben Jockers, and Jim Bly throughout his adventures. Jim even named his son after Richard.

Beyond his professional achievements, Richard's zest for life was evident in his diverse interests, hobbies and achievements. He was credited for his participation in Raquel Welch's first yoga video. In 1998, Richard was asked to participate in the sail of a yacht from the Caribbean to England. Due to a storm, he was lost at sea for over a month before eventually making it to the UK. An article was even published about this adventure in Traveler's magazine. Some of his many adventures included his love of mountain biking. Some of his favorite trails included Mohab Rim Trail in Utah and Hermosa Creek Trail in Colorado. Richard found a constant companion in his beloved dog, Lucy. He cherished Lucy from the time she was a puppy and they were never apart for the last five years. 

Richard is survived by his loving siblings Mark (Gina) Thomas, Tracy McGrath, Carole Errante, and Barry Thomas; nephews Matthew Thomas, Dr. Blake McGrath, Michael Lipka II; nieces Tara Thomas, Mandy (Justin) Stevens, Chelsea Rinios; great-nieces Skylar Hill and Emery Stevens; great-nephew Emmanuel Rinios. Richard is also a beloved cousin, nephew, and friend to many and will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. 

He is preceded in death by his father Richard Mahar Thomas Sr., mother Jo Ann Thomas, and brother Tod Thomas.

A visitation will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ballwin, Missouri on August 16th starting at 10:15 AM followed by a memorial mass to begin at 11:00 AM. Immediately following mass, the family invites you to join them at a Celebration of Richard's life at the church. 

Our brother was fun, smart, and very creative. He was a very giving and kind person. We love him and will miss him very much.