05/26/2026
The Urban League of Springfield acknowledges with profound sadness the passing of Henry M. Thomas III, former President & CEO of the Urban League of Springfield, whose visionary leadership and lifelong commitment to community empowerment left an extraordinary and lasting impact on Springfield and beyond.
When Mr. Thomas first became President & CEO of the Urban League of Springfield, one of his earliest and most significant accomplishments was reopening historic Camp Atwater in 1980 after a six-year hiatus. Through his vision, determination, and unwavering belief in the importance of youth development, Camp Atwater — the oldest African American overnight youth camp in the United States and now celebrating 105 years — was restored as a transformative space for Black and Brown youth. Today, thousands of young people and families continue to benefit from the experiences, leadership development, friendships, and lifelong memories created there. Camp Atwater, located in Worcester County and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, remains one of the most enduring parts of his legacy.
Mr. Thomas dedicated his life to uplifting others through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership. Through Urban League programs and his personal guidance, he impacted countless individuals, helping young people, families, and emerging leaders recognize their value, potential, and purpose. He possessed a remarkable ability to bring people together around the issues impacting our community and to lead with both strength and compassion.
His leadership extended beyond Springfield. Mr. Thomas also accepted a two-year assignment with the National Urban League in New York, serving as Vice President for Youth Development, where he focused on advocating for the programmatic infrastructure needed to strengthen youth development efforts within inner-city communities across the nation.
Henry M. Thomas III leaves behind a legacy rooted in service, empowerment, and opportunity. His impact continues to live on through the people he mentored, the institutions he strengthened, and the generations of youth whose lives were forever changed because of his vision and leadership.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, alumni, campers, families, and the entire Urban League of Springfield family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Devonia, children, Perren and Shadae, grandchildren, family, friends, colleagues, and all who loved and admired him.
May he rest in eternal peace and power. 🕊️
