Wendell P. Thomas, 85, of New Castle, passed away the evening of May 14, 2014 at Butler VA Medical Center, Butler, PA.Born April 10, 1929 in Youngstown, Ohio, he was a son of Rev. Evan P. and Frances Chappell Thomas.Surviving at home is his wife of 55 years, Virginia E. Street Thomas, whom he married September 12, 1958.He was a graduate of Scranton High School and the New Castle Business College.Wendell served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War in Japan and Guam. He retired after 40 years of active and reserve service as a Senior Master Sergeant.He was employed as the assistant paymaster with Johnson Bronze and later with St. Francis Hospital as an accounts receivable manager, retiring after 25 years.Wendell was a member of the Retired Air Force Association #910 in Youngstown, Ohio, an officer for the St. Francis Credit Union, a member of Gideon's International, and a volunteer for Contact EARS for over 10 years. Wendell was also a member of the TBCBS (Covered Bridge Society) and loved to travel, both continental and internationally, visiting 49 states and 50 countries. One of his hobbies was building and painting over 150 model airplanes as well as painting ceramic figurines. A long time member of First Alliance Church, he previously served as a deacon and Sunday school treasurer.In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Linda V.(Glenn) Wilson of China, and Miriam K. (John) Hall of New Castle; and one brother, Evan R. Thomas of Butler.He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Rev. W. Sherwood Thomas.Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2014, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle and Monday, May 19, 2014, from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at First Alliance Church, 111 Mission Meade Drive, New Castle.A service will take place on Monday, May 19, 2014, at 11:00 at the church and will be officiated by Rev. Philip Harrison.Burial will be in Oak Park Cemetery.Wendell's family wishes to thank Jameson Hospice and nurse Marti Bogdon for the special care and compassion shown to him during his time of need.Memorial contributions may be made to Jameson Hospice of Lawrence County, 1211 Wilmington Avenue, New Castle, PA 16105 or to the Great Commission Fund at First Alliance Church, 111 Mission Meade Drive, New Castle, PA 16105.