Obituary: Edward “Ted” Joseph Thomas

Edward (Ted) Joseph Thomas, born on April 19, 1962, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Natick, Massachusetts, on December 20, 2025.

Ted was born in Natick, Massachusetts, to Patricia and William Thomas, the third of their four sons. He spent his childhood and teenage years in Natick, where he attended Murphy Elementary School, Center School (under the guidance of the legendary Mr. Troy), Wilson Junior High, and Natick High School. From a young age, Ted showed a mischievous spirit and excelled in athletics. He participated in Pop Warner football, youth baseball, and basketball, and went on to have a storied career as a fullback for Natick High School. Ted was elected captain of the football team in his senior year. In addition to football, he ran track at NHS, specializing in the demanding 440-yard race. An avid skier, Ted also competed in regional freestyle events throughout New England and took part in diving as a member of the NHS swimming team. At 6’1” and 190 pounds, he brought enthusiasm and fun (If not success) to every sport, even those that required finesse.

After graduating from Natick High School in 1980, Ted attended Phillips Andover Academy as a post-graduate student, where he continued to excel both in academics and athletics. His dedication earned him admission to Williams College.

At Williams College, Ted (affectionately known to himself as Old 2-9 – reference to his jersey number) was a standout running back, starting on the varsity football team as a freshman and playing every season. Unfortunately, a torn ACL in his senior year ended his season early, but despite missing most of his final year, Ted remains ranked seventh in rushing yards in the Williams football record books. This accomplishment is even more remarkable given that he played before the rise of modern, offensively focused football strategies—making him the only pre-modern era player among the top ten. Ted also played lacrosse at Williams, eventually being elected captain of the team in his senior year. Another significant accomplishment, as his first try at lacrosse was during his freshman year at Williams.

After graduating from Williams College, Ted moved to New York City and worked for several years at Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. He then joined Benfield Blanch, a reinsurance company, specializing in new client development. After gaining valuable experience, Ted returned to Massachusetts and embarked on a career in residential development. He was highly successful, building speculative luxury and custom homes in Wellesley and surrounding towns. Sadly, a stroke in 2017 forced him to step away from his career, leaving him disabled and unable to continue his work in the field he was passionate about.

In 2004, Ted married Vanessa Richards and moved to Wellesley, Massachusetts. Together, they welcomed two sons: Ethan Thomas and, two years later, Owen Thomas. Ethan and Owen were the lights of Ted’s life and his greatest joy. He cherished watching them grow, succeed in athletics and academics, and simply enjoy life. Whether fishing in Quogue, Long Island, skiing, playing golf or watching the N.E. Patriots, time with his sons was Ted’s greatest passion. He and Vanessa co-parented and guided Ethan and Owen into becoming outstanding young men.

Ted was known for his infectious personality—generous, kind, loving, fun, and above all, a unique and hilarious sense of humor. People were naturally drawn to him, and he maintained lifelong friendships from Natick, Williams College, Middlebury College, and beyond. Ted was a loyal friend; an incredible father and his social bonds endured throughout his life.

Ted’s passing is deeply felt by his family and friends, especially his sons Ethan and Owen, his loving parents Pat and Bill Thomas, his brothers Billy, Jack (Barbra), and Jeff (Kellie), his uncle The Reverend Monsignor Jeremiah McGrath (who will officiate the funeral Mass) as well as countless friends. In addition to his immediate family, Ted leaves behind eleven nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly and his second family, Steve, Mike and Jon Rich and their dad, Walter.

A funeral mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at St. Patrick’s Church in Natick, Massachusetts. The family will receive visitors from 4 PM to 7 PM on Friday, January 2, 2026, at John Everett & Sons funeral home in Natick, Massachusetts.

Donations may be made in Ted’s memory to the Natick Service Council, Inc. 2 Webster Street, Natick, MA 01760.

For online guestbook and directions, please visit www.everettfuneral.com

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