Charles “Rosie” Thomas was born in Buckingham County, Virginia. He entered Fork Union Military Academy in 1918, entering as a sophomore and graduated in the class of 1921. Thomas continued his education at Virginia Tech graduating with an electrical engineering degree in 1925. He coached the freshman baseball team for one year to an undefeated season and assisted in coaching the freshman football team. Thomas then entered professional baseball playing for Indianapolis of the International League before returning to Fork Union in 1930. Thomas served as Athletic Director, Coach, and teacher of math and science. He scored a sweep while at Fork Union coaching football, baseball, and basketball. Thomas won 6 state titles in football, 6 in basketball, and 14 in baseball.
