David Rodney Thomas of DeKalb, IL, died peacefully in his sleep at home with family on May 21, 2025. He was born on May 2, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois to Willis and Beulah Thomas. Known to family and friends as “Rod”, he was a beloved husband to Kathleen (Johnson) Thomas. Rod and Kathy were married on November 15, 1980, in DeKalb.

Rod earned his Bachelor of Science in Education and his Master of Science in Education at Northern Illinois University (NIU). He was a member of the men’s music fraternity, Phi Mu Alpha. While at NIU, he became the first drum major for the marching band.

Rod was a band director and music teacher at Genoa-Kingston Elementary School, Middle School, and High School for over thirty years. He tried his hand at the assistant principal position at GKHS before returning to his love of teaching band. He was loved by his students who spent many hours with him in the classroom, in parades, hosting performances, and at competitions. Rod was recognized for his work by being inducted into the Genoa-Kingston Hall of Fame.

His love of music began early in his life. In addition to teaching young students to play music, Rod played bass guitar as a member of the local band, TCB (Taking Care of Business), performing at various local spots in the DeKalb area as well as events.

Rod was an avid golfer who could be found on any golf course with family, friends, or as a member of the Elks, NIU, or Buena Vistagolf leagues. He could also be found in front of the television on a rainy day, watching a golf match, and waiting for the sun to come out.

In addition to music and golf, Rod was a gourmet cook, which was enjoyed by many. He especially enjoyed the annual lobster boil party with friends.

Rod is survived by his wife, Kathleen, his children Michael (Tricia) Maxwell of DeKalb, IL, Noel (Sonja) Newton of Rockford, IL, Paulette (Robert) Thayer, and Danielle La Rosa of Florida, and his grandchildren, Avery and Carter Maxwell, Zoe and Wyatt Newton, Adysen (Joseph) Whigham and Steven (Kielynn) Thayer, Lacey, Joshua, Nicholas, and Kyla La Rosa and his niece Ashley (Sean) Guzzardo. He is also survived by his brother, Michael Douglas Thomas of Washington, and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Gerald and Marilyn Johnson of Joliet, IL.

Rod was preceded in death by his parents, his brother John Jeffery Thomas, and his in-laws, Wesley and Doris Johnson.

Rod’s life will be celebrated on June 21st from 2-4 p.m. at the DeKalb Elks Lodge where he was a lifetime member.

In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund has been set up in his name and will be awarded to a Genoa Kingston High School senior who plans to major in music. Donations can be accepted through the Go Fund Me account: Rod Thomas Music Memorial Scholarship Fund https://gofund.me/8533e9e8.

Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Anderson Funeral Home, 2011 S. 4th St, DeKalb, IL 60115.

For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.