Rick’s early years were marked by hands-on work and dedication. From the age of 13 until he was 36, he served as a mechanic and tow truck driver. Although he retired from this line of work due to medical reasons, his drive and spirit led him to pursue a new path. He embarked on a career as a Sales, Mortgage Loan & Insurance Agent, where he applied his sharp mind and engaging personality to help others. His formative education included earning an Associate’s Degree from Prairie State College, which contributed to his professional foundation.
A lifelong aficionado of the automotive world, Rick inherited a profound love for muscle cars, pro street cars, and custom cars from his father, a noted pro drag racer. This passion fueled many joyful moments throughout his life. Complementing his enthusiasm for vehicles was his deep love for music. Rick cultivated an impressive collection of vinyl records and cassette tapes, with a special fondness for heavy metal, although his musical taste was diverse and eclectic.
Rick was widely admired for his unwavering sense of humor and positivity, traits that shone brightly even in the face of disability. He was a kind and inspirational figure to those around him, always finding the brighter side of life’s challenges. This optimism endeared him to many and left a lasting impression on friends and family.
He is lovingly remembered by his sisters, Vikki Gardner (Chris) and Tammy Hoover (Jerry), who carry forward his memory with deep affection. He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy "Dianne" Johnson, his father, Robert K. Johnson, Sr., and his brother, Robert K. Johnson, Jr., whose legacies remain intertwined with his own.
Richard Michael Johnson's life journey reflected a blend of courage, warmth, and dedication. His passing marks the loss of a remarkable soul whose influence will continue to inspire all who knew him. The community and family who embraced him hold his memory dear, honoring a man who lived with heart, humor, and strength.
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Milford C. Thomas Sr. was born in Buckingham, Florida to Samuel and Edith (Hedlund) Thomas on November 2, 1940. He was the oldest son of ten children. Later the family moved to Sarasota, Florida. Milford left school in the tenth grade to work to support his family. Milford would take any work, but cowboying would be the one thing that he stayed with.
Milford was married to Melinda (Marky) Thomas for 62 years and had four children, Sheryl Thomas, Brett Thomas (Erline), the late Travis Thomas, and Katy Thomas (Joe), and two grandchildren, Anthony and Sarah Jane.
Milton retired from Lykes Bros, Inc. For 38 years he was riding foreman at North Island division. Milford loved riding a good horse, gathering cattle in the woods, and working them more than anything. After retirement, he continued to day work at surrounding ranches and still loved riding his horse.
Milford will be remembered by his family and friends as a loyal, honest and hard working man and be loved forever with wonderful memories.
Milford C. Thomas Sr. was born in Buckingham, Florida to Samuel and Edith (Hedlund) Thomas on November 2, 1940. He was the oldest son of ten children. Later the family moved to Sarasota, Florida. Milford left school in the tenth grade to work to support his family. Milford would take any work, but cowboying would be the one thing that he stayed with.
Milford was married to Melinda (Marky) Thomas for 62 years and had four children, Sheryl Thomas, Brett Thomas (Erline), the late Travis Thomas, and Katy Thomas (Joe), and two grandchildren, Anthony and Sarah Jane.
Milton retired from Lykes Bros, Inc. For 38 years he was riding foreman at North Island division. Milford loved riding a good horse, gathering cattle in the woods, and working them more than anything. After retirement, he continued to day work at surrounding ranches and still loved riding his horse.
Milford will be remembered by his family and friends as a loyal, honest and hard working man and be loved forever with wonderful memories.
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