Bernard Thomas

Bernard Russell Thomas was born in Beckley, West Virginia on May 14, 1952. He spent his early years there and later moved to New Haven, Connecticut.

He excelled academically at an early age and was chosen to participate in A Better Chance Program where he received a full scholarship to attend The Hill School in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. This prestigious boarding school prepared him to earn a Bachelors degree at Tufts University where he graduated Cum Laude. Bernard later moved across country to California where he received an MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business.

His academic excellence, negotiation skills and love of real estate development, allowed him to hold leadership positions at renowned top real estate and finance companies. Most recently, he served as Director of Development & Peripheral Property for the Taubman Company after positions as, Executive Manager of Real Estate for the City of Detroit, and Vice President of Chase Manhattan Bank, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and AT&T.

Bernard was a member of Word of Faith International Christian Center in Southfield, MI. He enjoyed giving to others and spending time with his friends and family. He was an avid reader, tennis player, and devoted Dallas Cowboys fan.

He leaves to cherish his memory, Parents- Mollie McKenzie, William McKenzie of Detroit, Milton Thomas of Naples, Florida, Son- Dr. Jason Thomas and (Wife Dr. Brittany Thomas) of Atlanta, Daughter- Erica Thomas of New Jersey, Grandchildren- Jackson Thomas and Robert Bivines, as well as a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, godchildren, friends, and extended family.