SURF CITY — It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Captain Tony Thomas “Cupcake,” who transitioned peacefully listening to country music surrounded by his wife and kids on January 17th 2026. He was born on February 12, 1962, to parents Sandra Ottaway and George Thomas of Surf City, NC. He spent his youth raising cane and wreaking havoc around Surf City, his hometown, the place he loved with his whole heart.
Tony is survived by his wife Denise Thomas, children Shana (Mark) Burdette and Cody (Ashley) Thomas, his cherished grandchildren Greyson and Braelyn Burdette, and Harper and Alaina Thomas, mothers Sandra (David) Ottaway, and Elma Thomas-Boyle, brothers Tim and Todd Thomas, his sister Marcy (Dougan) Frazier, Uncle Doug Thomas and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends with whom he deeply loved.
Tony is preceded in death by his grandparents George Rufus and Elvie Thomas and Clyde and Goldie Ottaway, his father, George Thomas, father-in-law Edwin Dumas, Cousin Ryan Thomas, nephew Marcus Howard and beloved big baby, Doug Hoffman.
Tony was known for his laughter and his ability to make people smile. He never knew a stranger and would give anybody the shirt off his back. He loved to share his knowledge of commercial fishing, stories of his many adventures in and around Surf City, up and down the east coast and Puerto Rico.
He will be remembered by all of us, as someone almost larger than life, with a twinkle in his eye, a heart of gold and a mischievous attitude. He has left a significant hole in our hearts and a pair of Sneads Ferry sneakers that can never be filled. He will be forever missed.
