Passed away peacefully on Monday afternoon, June 29th 2026 surrounded by loved ones at the age of 91. Son of the late Adolph and Martha Thoms (Yach). Predeceased by his wife, Shirley (Ireland) Thoms, whom he shared 64 years of marriage. Loving and devoted father of Randy (Pam) and Brian (Sheri). Cherished grandfather of Kathryn (Nathan Fraser), Graham (Renee King), Taylor (Josh Brennen) and Jayme (Ryan Watts). Proud Great Grandfather to wee Élianne Marguerite (Kathryn and Nathan). Dear brother of Alan (Lenora), Glen (late Marilyn) and Lionel (Rosanna). Predeceased by his brother Harvey (Edith). Dear brother-in-law of Diane (Ireland) Plager (late Dean Plager), Anne (Campeau) Ireland (late Blair Ireland) and the late Iris (Ireland) Smiley (late Cyril Smiley).
Roy will be sadly missed by his many nieces and nephews and especially his neighbour Jimmy Horner. Thank you to Diane and Jimmy for their kindness and support.
Born in Thorne on the homestead in 1934, Roy was the eldest of the 5 brothers. In his early years he was brought up by his grandmother while his parents worked the farm. Since his grandmother was German, that was all he spoke until the age of 3. By the age of 18, he acquired a certificate in auto and diesel engine repair. His first employment as a mechanic was at J.L. Hodgins. He then moved to Ray Sheppard’s Ford and Mercury dealership where he worked until retirement in 1999. During this time, he volunteered as a firefighter and chief for over 40 years acquiring numerous accolades along the way.
Through the years he enjoyed many activities including helping on the Ireland farm, camping with his family, snowmobiling, broomball, hunting, fishing and curling. In his later years, he repaired and maintained the family homestead in Ladysmith. He also took up wood turning producing many cherished items.
Being a healthy and active man, developing COPD changed his ability to live his life fully. He was still able to tour around the countryside though often visiting his sons and families outside of Ottawa.
Friends may call at the Hayes Funeral Home, 134 Centre Street, Shawville, Quebec on Friday, July 10th from 9 to11 a.m. followed by chapel service in the funeral home. A reception will be served at in the funeral home. For those wishing to attend, the interment will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery following the luncheon.
Donations to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Association (COPD Canada) would be greatly appreciated.
Arrangements
Friends may call at the Hayes Funeral Home, 134 Centre Street, Shawville, Quebec on Friday, July 10th from 9 to11 a.m. followed by chapel service in the funeral home. A reception will be served at in the funeral home. For those wishing to attend, the interment will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery following the luncheon.