Thomas was killed by a machine gun bullet passing through his heart during the advance on the Piave River. He died just two weeks before the end of the war.

Teesdale Mercury-29/10/1919: In memoriam

Teesdale Mercury-27/11/1918: Local and other notes: Death on Italian Front

Teesdale Mercury-04/12/1918: Return Thanks Notices

Prior to the war he was the Postmaster for Barningham and ran the shop. Thomas joined the army in March 1917 and was posted to Italy seven months later.

In a letter to Thomas' widow, Private H. Hill wrote:

"we had been together nearly all the time we have been in Italy. I know that a real man went under when he was killed facing the enemy. I understand he was told to hold a very difficult position, and that he bravely did so with his gun, but was almost immediately struck by a machine-gun bullet, which penetrated his heart, killing him instantaneously. Doubtless you have had full particulars of the sad event from the Company Officer, but 1 thought I would like to let you know that his loss is felt by those who have soldiered wit h him, including especially myself. Many and many a chat had we together—he telling of his happy home life and I of mine, and what we were both going to do when  terrible war was over."

Teesdale Mercury-27/11/1918: Roll of Honour Notice

Teesdale Mercury-11/12/1918: Local and other notes: Letter to be published next week

Teesdale Mercury-25/12/1918: Local and other notes: Touching letter

Teesdale Mercury-05/03/1919: Local and other notes: Barningham Roll of Honour

Teesdale Mercury-05/03/1919: Local and other notes: Barningham Roll of Honour