Unearthing The Undead 02 - THOMAS ASHWELL

Thomas played a posse member in the film and can be spotted in the posse scenes, crossing the field during the helicopter landing shot, and in the background as News Reporter Bill Cardille gives Sheriff George Kosana a cup of coffee.  Night of the Living Dead was not Thomas' only role in a George Romero film.  He also played the abortion doctor in "There's Always Vanilla" and one of the army doctors that gets infected in "The Crazies".

Thomas's passion for theatre and media led to an impressive career in film and television, spanning London, Ontario; Pittsburgh, PA; and Cincinnati, OH. He served as an executive producer at KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh and continued working well into his 80s, writing and producing documentaries for the Greatest Living Cincinnatians. His exceptional work earned him several local Emmys for his TV scripts and production projects.

Beyond his media career, Thomas had a deep love for horsemanship. He competed in equestrian shows and cross-country jumping events, earning numerous awards and even securing a place on the Canadian National Team. A proud Canadian patriot, Thomas served in Canada s Royal Military Reserves as part of the First Hussars Armoured Regiment.

Thomas's adventurous spirit took him all over the world, with trips to Europe, Asia, North and South America, and Australia/New Zealand. In his early 80s, he even climbed a mountain to tour Machu Picchu  the right way.

Thomas Allen Ashwell, Mar 31, 1930   Mar 15, 2022 (Age 91)

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Researched and compiled by John Vullo

Text and photos  © Image Ten, Inc.

If you know of any family, friends or acquaintances that appeared as extras in the original Night of the Living Dead, please contact John Vullo at jmv3683@gmail.com

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