It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Fred N. Thomas, Jr., a cherished friend, dedicated benefactor, and honorary board member of RCMA. Fred is best remembered as a man with a relentless commitment to making the world a better place. His impact on RCMA and the Immokalee community is immeasurable, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Fred joined the RCMA board in 1987, dedicating 29 years to our mission before retiring in 2016. According to Isabel Garcia, Executive Director at RCMA, his impact will continue to be felt long after his death.
“Fred’s passing is one that affects us all deeply at RCMA,” she says. “Even after his retirement, he was named an honorary board member, continuing to support and guide us with his wisdom and passion. His legacy is woven into the fabric of RCMA, and his dedication has left an indelible mark on our organization.”
Fred’s journey began long before he moved to Florida in 1980. A retired public administrator with a remarkable career, he was also an avid photographer, a passion that started 35 years ago. His love for capturing the world through his lens was not just a hobby but a way of life. Before moving to Florida, Fred had several posters published to support various community activities, a testament to his dedication to community service and artistic expression.
One of his most celebrated photographs, taken in 1989, is of a historic warehouse in Micanopy, Florida. This iconic image hangs in the Micanopy Museum today and remains one of their bestselling postcards. For eight consecutive years, Fred’s photographs were honored as Best of Show at the Collier County Annual Fair photo contest, a reflection of his exceptional skill and artistic vision.
His photographs grace the offices of Congressman Porter Goss and Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart in Washington, D.C., as well as several legislative offices in Tallahassee. In May 2005, the Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary recognized Fred’s talent by naming him the Resident Artist of the Month.
Fred’s contributions extended well beyond photography. He had a profound impact on the Collier County Housing Authority, where he served both the Naples and Immokalee offices until his retirement. His commitment to community development was evident in the numerous projects he led to enhance the lives of Immokalee residents. His tireless efforts on the Immokalee Local Redevelopment Advisory Board (CRA) brought about significant positive changes in the community he so dearly loved.
Fred N. Thomas, Jr. was a man of extraordinary talent, kindness, and commitment. His legacy will continue to inspire us and remind us of the impact one individual can have on a community. We at RCMA are profoundly grateful for his years of service, his generosity, and his unwavering support. Fred’s spirit will live on in the work we do and in the hearts of all who knew him.
The entire RCMA family sends condolences to Cherryle, his wife, and the entire Thomas family. We will miss our friend.
