John Scott Thomas

John Scott Thomas, 53, passed away unexpectedly March 6, 2016.

Born in Akron, he was a lifelong Ohio resident and 1983 graduate of Bowling Green State University. Recently, John traveled often between Cleveland and Ethiopia as the Director of Business for Neon Addis PLC, the family sign company, in Addis Ababa. Previously, he worked in academia, the medical engineering and railroad industries. John was a passionate idealist, loved his family unconditionally, and was above all a devoted husband. Known as "Sheriff John" he was a towering and positive presence to the Westside Cleveland community. He could build or fix just about anything and also loved reading, history, shooting and being with family.

He is survived by his loving spouse, Kidist Getachew; brother, Stephen A. Thomas (Monika Brandrup -Thomas); nieces, Meredith Thomas, Beatrice Thomas, Claudia Hauge; uncle, Dr. John Thomas (Page Thomas); aunt, Eleanore Thomas; and many loving cousins and in-laws. He was preceded in death by his father, William Gould "Bill" and mother, Lou Anne Thomas.

Family will receive friends an hour prior to an 11 a.m. memorial service, Saturday, March 12, 2016, in the Historic Chapel at The Bath Church, U.C.C., 3980 West Bath Road, Akron, OH 44333. Inurnment will be at Moore's Chapel Cemetery in Bath Twp. and a reception for family, friends and neighbors will follow at the church. In Lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Detroit Shoreway Community Development Organization. To share a Memory, Send a Condolence, or Light a Candle, visit the Tribute Wall at www.billowfuneralhomes.com (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)