Aaron S. Thomas

Aaron S. Thomas passed away suddenly on Thursday, November 13, 2025. At the age of 53, Aaron left behind a legacy of love and kindness. Those who knew Aaron well describe him variously as sweet, sensitive, compassionate, vivacious, gregarious, personable, charming, magnetic and, above all, a beautiful soul. Everywhere he went, he would run into someone he knew. He was known by many and loved by all. To Aaron, there were no strangers, only friends he hadn’t yet met.

Born on December 6, 1971, Aaron was the cherished son of Cathy (Mike) Russo and Hollis (Cathy) Thomas. He was the beloved brother of Anthony (Allyson Walton) Thomas, Autumn Smith, and Alexis Thomas, the proud uncle of Christian and Tae Reetz, Airamey and Xavier Thomas, and Shiloh, Eden, and Daniel Smith, and nephew and cousin to many. Aaron was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, George and Clotee (Dotson) Thomas, and his maternal grandparents, Joseph and Marie (Hill) Serratore.

Born in East Chicago, Indiana, Aaron spent his childhood in Hammond and Terre Haute, Indiana, Oak Park, Illinois and various western suburbs of Chicago. Aaron graduated from Lisle High School and went on to Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where he formed the deepest, most meaningful friendships of his life. Aaron’s latter years were spent in the Elgin area, where he volunteered and lent a helping hand at several faith-based community outreach groups. Aaron had an innate compassion and desire to help those less fortunate than himself and endeavored to help in any way he could.

Aaron had a zest for life that was evident to everyone he met. He loved nature. He loved walking in the woods and found comfort in the peace and serenity he found there. He adored animals and loved their pure spirits. He retained a childlike wonder throughout his life. A joyful and beautiful soul, Aaron will always be remembered for his ability to light up any room with his infectious personality. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his spirit and legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor at Countryside Funeral Home and Crematory, 95 S. Gilbert St., South Elgin, Illinois on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 3:00 to 9:00 pm, with a service at 5:00 pm. Family, friends, and anyone whose life Aaron touched are invited to come together to remember and celebrate a truly remarkable person.