Thomas Alianak

Thomas Alianak of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, was born October 25, 1947, in Khartoum, Sudan and died December 25, 2022 in Bentonville, Arkansas.

He is survived by his wife, Janis Alianak, of the home; sister, Sonia Alianak and husband Tom West, of Edinburg, Texas; cousins, Nairy Williams, Sylvia Lucas and husband Noel and children, Dr. M. Shirinian, all of Wimbledon, U.K.; step-daughter, Jana Harris and husband Jim; stepson, Steven Watson; and step-grandchildren, Jack Harris and wife Becca, John Harris, Eric Watson, David Watson.

Thomas earned a degree in Engineering in Egypt before traveling to England to continue his studies. At Essex, he earned a Masters in Computer Science and then took employment with British Petroleum (BP) for 20 years. During his career there, he presented two different papers at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research. Thomas came to America to pursue an MBA, which he completed before being recruited by Walmart where he worked until retiring. He and Janis wed on January 5, 2005.

He loved to read, adored history and loved to do research. He could speak five languages, and so could read original documents as he studied. In retirement, he did research for his sister, Sonia, who was a professor of foreign and American politics. He had an easy laugh and a zest for life. If you met Thomas once, you knew his character completely: he was gentle and kind, quiet but caring, helpful with no temper, a man who shared household chores and was faithful in his stewardship. He was a brilliant man with no hint of ego…truly humble.

He and Janis were members of First Christian Church in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, his service was held there December 31st, with Pastor Mark Golaway officiating. Thomas was buried in Eureka Springs Cemetery.