Thomas Royster, Sr. (known to his wife as “Lovie”) died
Thursday, January 2, 2020 at Barnes Jewish/Christian (BJC)
Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri. Thomas never liked a lot of
fuss, so per his request, there will be no memorial service.
However, his life has touched the hearts of many people. So,
all who wish to honor his life are invited to raise a glass to
“The Buccaneers with Hairy Ears” (his favorite toast).

Thomas is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Mary (Smith)
Royster, his sons Thomas Royster, Jr and Jose Ortiz, Jr. as well
as; his daughters Melissa (Royster) Neverls, Tammia Royster and
Camara Royster. He also leaves behind his sisters, Karen
(Tobias)Pitts, Mary Wanda Tobias and Pauline (Tobias) Hessing
along with his brothers Leslie Tobias and Marvin Tobias. Thomas
also leaves behind a multitude of grand and great grandchildren
and many close relatives and friends. He was preceded in death
by his mother, Edwina Tobias, step-father Joseph Tobias and
father “Jeff” Royster.

A native of Baltimore, Thomas attended and graduated from Dunbar
High School. Thomas enjoyed sharing stories of his exciting
heart-rendering childhood in Baltimore, such as playing the tuba
and being raised by no-nonsense females (Aunt Bee and Aunt
Pauline, as well as his mother). Thomas also proudly served his
country in the U.S. Army.
Thomas’ hard work ethics and desire to achieve took him and his
family across many states until they made St Louis their home
where they have resided for approximately 30 years.

After 30 years, Thomas retired from the University of Missouri,
St Louis where he was a Sr. Construction Project Manager. He was
also a tireless and selfless volunteer as a Professional
Licensed Official for the USA Boxing Organization and
volunteered as an Election Judge for St Louis and St Charles
County. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing the guitar.