It is with deep respect and sincere gratitude that I reflect on the recent passing of retired Glastonbury Police Chief James “Skip” Thomas. Chief Thomas was not only a dedicated public servant, but also a man of unwavering values whose impact on the Glastonbury Police Department, and on me personally, was profound.
Chief Thomas hired me in 1996, giving me the opportunity to begin what has become a rewarding and meaningful career in this exceptional town. I owe him and his family a great debt of gratitude for believing in me and setting me on this path. It is because of his leadership that I came to understand what it truly means to serve with honor and humility.
Though he retired from the department in 1999, I remained in regular contact with him over the years. He was always generous with his time, offering advice, listening intently, and providing support whether I was facing a personal challenge or navigating a professional decision. His wisdom, calm demeanor, and sincere interest in the well-being of others never wavered.
Chief Thomas always remained focused on what mattered most: family, friends, and faith. These three pillars that grounded his leadership. They were evident in how he carried himself, with compassion, fairness, and integrity, and in the way he treated the people around him. His approachability, quiet confidence, and strong moral compass shaped the tone and culture of our department.
He was deeply committed to youth and believed meaningful community engagement begins with investing in them. As the department’s first DARE officer, he forged connections with students, parents, and educators.
He didn’t just support our department’s mission to deliver quality community services with integrity and sensitivity, he lived it.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family. He will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.