Dr. Robert Matthew Thomas, Jr.
OBITUARY
Dr. Robert Matthew Thomas, Jr., a distinguished ophthalmologist and highly respect- ed member of the San Diego medical community, peacefully passed away on December 23, 2025, at the age of 86 in La Jolla, California. He will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved him.
A Life of Service and Medicine
Dr. Thomas dedicated his life to the field of ophthalmology, providing expert eye care and surgical services to the San Diego area for more than 50 years. He co-founded San Diego Eye Institute, served on the Mercy Hospital board of directors and later was a cherished member on staff at Eye Care of San Diego. Throughout his esteemed career, he was known by colleagues and patients for his clinical excellence, compassionate nature and commitment to restoring sight, for which he is admired to this day.
His journey in medicine began at the St. Louis University School of Medicine, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine in 1964, followed by an internship in medicine at the same institution in 1965. He then completed his residency in Ophthalmology at Metropolitan General Hospital in Cleveland in 1968. Following his studies, he proudly served as Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Medical Corps, based in Rhode Island from 1968 to 1970, before permanently settling in San Diego.
His professional reach was extensive, including certifications as a Diplomat of the American Board Ophthalmology and a Fellowship from the American College of Surgeons (FACS), widely regarded as the gold standard in surgical excellence. Throughout his career, he remained active in the medical community through longtime memberships in: The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (32 years), The California Medical Association (55 years) and The San Diego County Medical Society (55 years). These organizations are immensely grateful for his extensive contributions and the lasting impact he made.
Personal Life and Legacy
Born December 27, 1938, in East Cleveland, Ohio, Bob graduated from John Carroll University in 1960, a foundational step that prepared him for the intellectual rigors of medical school and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
Beyond his professional accolades, Bob was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather–affectionately known as “Papa.” He was a man of profound curiosity and varied passions. An avid reader, he found great joy in the pages of history books, but was equally at home in nature, whether he was fishing, boating, traveling the world, watching hummingbirds in his garden, spending a quiet afternoon at the zoo or attending the opera. He held a deep affection for animals.
What truly defined Bob, however, was his remarkable spirit. He shared his unwaver- ing optimism and sense of humor with all fortunate to be touched by him. He will be remembered for his quick wit, steady hands and profound kindness. A man of deep humility and patience, Bob was thoroughly devoted to his family, leaving behind a legacy of strength and grace that will forever be cherished.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 64 years, Carole Toth Thomas; son, Robert Matthew Thomas III (Robb); daughter, Katherine Thomas Elms and her husband, Steve; grandchildren, Hayden, Harrison, Pierce, and Preston Elms; brother, William Thomas, DDS; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Matthew Thomas and Katherine Hayden Thomas; and sister, Mary Katherine Damian. His close canine companion, Oreo, will miss Bob’s gentle touch and evening tug and fetch games.
A memorial Mass and Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church in La Jolla, followed by a reception at the La Jolla Country Club.
For those who wish to honor his legacy of the gift of sight, please consider donating to the nonprofit San Diego Eye Bank, 3870 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 250, San Diego, CA, 92123, or visit www.sdeb.org/community/support-us.