Alan Joseph Thomas, 59, of Raleigh, N.C., died May 7, 2021. He was the son of Nancy Eno Thomas and the late John Paul Thomas Sr. He was raised in Emmaus and Lower Macungie Township, graduating from Emmaus High School in 1979.

He went to work for a Pennsylvania Department of Transportation crew before enrolling at Millersville State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business in 1988.

He moved to Raleigh, N.C., in 1988 where he lived the remainder of his life, with the exception of two years in Wilmington, N.C.

He was an avid music fan and attended rock concerts at the Philadelphia Spectrum as a young teen. Jimmy Buffet was a favorite and his fun, beach-themed decor adorned his home year-round.

He had a special way with cats and had one as a pet most of his life. He loved to watch birds, keep fish and nourish house plants.

Married in 2001, he doted on his stepdaughters for the duration of the five year marriage.

As a die-hard fan of both the Philadelphia Eagles and N.C. State Wolfpack, he loved to watch games in sports bars with a crowd around. He could strike up a conversation with just about anyone, anywhere and find common ground. Like his father, he loved to meet new people, tell stories and simply have a good time. His charismatic, friendly nature served him well throughout his career in sales. For the last several years, he worked with WeatherGuard Roofing and Restoration.

He is survived by his mother (Jerry Knauss, partner); brother, Richard; younger siblings, John and Jean Marie Livaudais (Charles); nieces, Samantha Gilbert (Rob), Stephanie Gubish (Rick) and Laura Livaudais; nephews, Ben Livaudais and Charley. He was predeceased by his father.

Arrangements by the Carlton L. Gray Funeral & Cremation Services, Raleigh, N.C.

A graveside funeral service was held at the Emmaus Moravian Cemetery July 11.