Ernest Andrew Thomas, affectionately known as Andy, was born on March 29, 1964, to Elizabeth C Thomas and Cmdr. Richard S Thomas. Andy graduated from La Jolla High School and studied at Regis University and the University of Denver, earning a degree in Hotel Management. He was a proud member of the SAE Fraternity.
Andy was well known by his friends and family as "The Host with the Most." He always had a chilled bottle of champagne and his friends' favorite beverage ready to be poured. He loved weekend brunches, attending the opening night of a play, or the latest concert. He was known for always wearing a blue Polo ball cap and his preference for casual attire. Andy enjoyed traveling with his many friends, and his last trip was a celebration of his 60th birthday in Tulum, Mexico.
Andy's dedication to his hotel management career was unwavering. He spent 31 years at Evans Hotels, a family business he greatly respected. As Senior Vice President for Business Development, Andy was a valued colleague and mentor who led with his heart, putting kindness and caring at the center of all he did. His contributions to the industry were recognized with a Gold Key Award from the San Diego County Lodging Association.
Andy was also dedicated to the community, serving on the boards of Discover Mission Bay, La Jolla Playhouse, the San Diego Fire-Rescue Foundation, the San Diego International Film Foundation, and the Rob Benson Dan Ferbal Foundation, as well as numerous tourism advisory boards.
Andy, the grandson of Col. Paul A. Campbell and son of Cmdr. Richard Savage Thomas is joining his father and grandfather on a final journey in space —three generations united in flight, service, and exploration. By sending Andy's ashes into space, we honor a family legacy that helped shape aviation and space medicine. May he rest among the stars they so deeply inspired.
Cheers to Andy, the most FABULOUS STAR we will ever know -
Love, his family and friends
