Roger S. Thomas

Roger Scott Thomas, 78, formerly of Goldsboro, PA, passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, with family by his side. Born on December 7, 1947, in Mechanicsburg, he was the son of the late Robert L. and Mary F. (Thiel) Thomas.

A 1963 graduate of Cedar Cliff High School, Roger went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Army, earning the rank of Major. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Penn State University before being stationed in Louisiana, bringing his high school sweetheart along with him as they began their life together. While there, Roger continued his education at Louisiana State University, earning a master’s degree in psychiatric social work.

Roger was a pioneer in the Pelican State, serving as the first social worker in Louisiana State Penal System history. His career eventually took him to Louisiana State Penitentiary—famously known as the “Alcatraz of the South”—where he rose to the position of deputy warden of medical treatment.

In 1990, Roger and his young family returned to their home state of Pennsylvania, settling in Etters. He continued his career in corrections at York County Prison, where he would eventually retire.

Away from work, Roger was an avid and talented woodworker. He learned the trade from his father and, in turn, passed that same love and knowledge on to his son. Over the years, he crafted countless pieces of furniture and cabinetry, but woodworking was always about enjoyment rather than profit—he never sold a thing.

More than his professional accomplishments or woodworking talents, Roger will be remembered for his character. He was an exceptionally honest man, a devoted father, and someone whose word meant something. If Roger told you he was going to do something, he did it. Those who knew him could count on his integrity, and his family considered it among his greatest qualities.

Roger was also a Mason in good standing for more than fifty years, belonging to Quitman Lodge 76, F.&A.M., New Orleans.

In recent years, Roger made his home at Essex House in Lemoyne, where he formed many friendships and genuinely enjoyed being part of the community there. He remained himself throughout it all—a man of principle, a craftsman at heart, and someone whose life was built with the same care and honesty he brought to everything he made.

Surviving Roger are his daughter, Kriston McMichael (Robert) of Cranberry Township, PA; his son, Ross Thomas (Shawna) of Harrisburg, PA; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Dan), Trey, Tessa, Miranda, and Rhys; a great-grandson, Ari; and a brother, Reid F. Thomas. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Edythe (Bolbecher) Thomas.

A public viewing will be held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, from 10AM until a funeral service begins at 11AM at Parthemore Funeral Home, New Cumberland. The following day, Wednesday, August 19, interment will take place in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at 11AM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in Roger’s name to the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area.