Obituary of Peter Anson Thrift

Peter Anson Thrift, 81, of Glen Mills, PA, passed away at his home in Maris Grove Senior Living on February 9, 2026.

Born in Washington, D.C., to Sterling and Marie Anson Thrift, Peter was raised in College Park, MD. He attended Carroll High School and earned his bachelor's degree from The Catholic University of America.

After graduating from college, Peter served in the United States Air Force for 11 years as a Computer Systems Programmer, rising to the rank of Captain. After completing his service in the Air Force, Peter transitioned to a career with the Department of Defense. This move allowed him to continue his lifelong commitment to public duty, applying his leadership and management skills to the Defense Information Systems Agency for over 30 years.

Peter was deeply civic-minded and generously gave his time to his community. He served as treasurer of his Homeowners Association, coached tee-ball for his son's team, and held other local leadership roles. Peter had a strong do-it-yourself spirit and enjoyed building a variety of items for the home, even building an addition onto his house with the help of his brother, Tommy.

Peter and his wife Ruth Ann loved to travel, especially trips to the shore in Cape May. He was an avid aquarium enthusiast who bred award winning fish and, at one time, served on the board of the Potomac Valley Aquarium Society. Peter also enjoyed photography, listening to music, attending concerts, and making pizza from scratch for his family.

Peter was a wonderful grandfather to his four grandsons.  He absolutely loved being Baha to Cougar & Colton and Granddad to Brooks & Hayes.  He enjoyed attending their music concerts and sporting events.  Many games, books, puzzles, Atari games, and episodes of Sponge Bob were enjoyed by Peter and his grandsons.

Peter is survived by his wife of 56 years, Ruth Ann Thrift; his children, Deborah (Wayne) Conley and Ben (Heather) Thrift; his grandsons, Cougar Conley, Colton Conley, Brooks Thrift, and Hayes Thrift; his sister, Karen Thrift, as well as many loving cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Peter was predeceased by his brother, Tommy Thrift.

Services for Peter will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.paganofuneralhome.com