SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA — The South Dakota medical community, alongside regional athletic networks and countless grateful patients, is united in deep, unimaginable shock and grief following the sudden passing of Dr. Eric Richard Thomas, MD. Dr. Thomas passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, June 25, 2026, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, at the age of 53.
Dr. Thomas was a premier vitreoretinal surgeon, a respected medical leader, and a fiercely devoted family man. Renowned for his brilliant surgical hands, his sharp wit, and an unshakeable passion for youth sports development, his sudden departure leaves a profound void across the upper Midwest.
The Legacy of Dr. Eric Richard Thomas, MD
Honoring the Life and Medical Legacy of Dr. Eric Thomas
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Age at Passing : 53 Years Old
Date of Passing : Thursday, June 25, 2026 (Unexpected)
Primary Practice : Vitreoretinal Surgeon, Ophthalmology LTD (17 Years)
Hospital Affiliation : Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center
Leadership Roles : Past President, South Dakota Academy of Ophthalmology
Regional Rep for State Affairs, American Academy of Ophthalmology
Surviving Family : Wife, Emily Thomas; Children, Taylor, Aidan, and Payton
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seventeen Years of Restoring Vision and Restoring Hope
A proud, lifelong resident of South Dakota, Dr. Eric Thomas dedicated his entire professional career to preserving and restoring the vision of his fellow Midwesterners. For the past 17 years, he served as a specialized vitreoretinal surgeon and co-owner at Ophthalmology LTD, operating in close conjunction with Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center.
Dr. Thomas was highly regarded by his peers as a titan in his field. His dedication to clinical excellence led him to serve as the Past President of the South Dakota Academy of Ophthalmology and as a vital regional representative for State Affairs within the American Academy of Ophthalmology, championing advanced eye care legislation and education across the state.
A Champion for Women’s Soccer and Family First
While Dr. Thomas operated with elite precision in the surgical suite, his impact outside of the clinic was equally transformative. He possessed an immense passion for sports philanthropy, investing his personal time and resources to elevate and grow the game of women’s soccer across the greater Sioux Falls region.
A Father, Surgeon, and Community Builder
=========================================================================
[ The Surgeon ] ---> Provided world-class vitreoretinal care for 17 years,
advancing state-wide ophthalmology standards.
[ The Visionary ] ---> Dedicated boundless energy to expanding and elevating
the youth women’s soccer landscape in the Midwest.
[ The Anchor ] ---> Stood as a fiercely proud father to his college-aged
eldest children and a constant support at home.
=========================================================================
At home, Eric’s world revolved around his family. He cherished building a beautiful life in Sioux Falls alongside his beloved wife, Emily, and their youngest daughter, Payton, while watching their older children, Taylor and Aidan, grow into independent scholars attending college.
Community Celebration of Life Notice
To honor a vibrant life cut heartbreakingly short, the Thomas family will eschew a traditional solemn service in favor of a true celebration of Eric’s distinct personality, humor, and legacy.
All colleagues, former patients, soccer families, and friends are invited to gather to share memories, laughter, and stories:
-
Event: Celebration of Life Gathering
-
Date & Time: Tuesday, June 30, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
-
Location: JJ’s Wine, Spirits & Cigars
-
3000 W. 57th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57108
-
A Note to Attendees from the Family: In alignment with Eric’s vibrant spirit and love for genuine storytelling, attendees are warmly asked to bring and share their favorite photograph of Eric, accompanied by a written memory or story. These written mementos will be compiled for his children so that his distinct spirit and enduring legacy will live on forever.
May he rest in eternal, beautiful peace.