We are sad to announce that our beloved father, James Thomas, passed away November 19, 2023 after struggling with Alzheimer’s, but we are comforted to know that he can now rejoin the love of his life, Helen Thomas, who passed away last month.
Jim was born in Kansas City, MO on October 28, 1935 and quickly developed into a tall and strapping young man. He was a strong athlete and was named to the All-City Football Team as a tackle from Paseo High School several times. He was also blessed with a terrific voice and loved to sing, with several neighbors funding supplemental training due to his excellent voice. After marrying Helen in 1956, he served in the Air Force on active duty and later was called up on reserve. Professionally he worked as a credit manager for Conoco Oil, Lee Jeans, and other firms throughout a long career.
Jim was an amazing husband and father, blessed with unparalleled patience and supportiveness. He volunteered with youth groups and attended scores of concerts and sporting events of his children, putting his family at the center of his life. Jim always took immense pride in his children and grandchildren.
Jim didn’t believe in coarse language or a quick temper but instead loved to laugh at every opportunity he could find. He enjoyed continuing his singing in church choirs, game nights with friends, and regular travel in the U.S. and abroad with Helen. He was a lifelong churchgoer and most recently a member of the Longview Chapel Christian Church in Lee’s Summit, MO.
Jim is survived by son, James E. Thomas Jr. and his wife Christine of Carmel, IN; daughter, Lori Kirsten Thomas of Lee’s Summit, MO; grandchildren, Nate Thomas of Westfield, IN, Ben Thomas of Noblesville, IN, Rusty Thomas and his wife Nikkie of Gardner, KS, Avery Chadd of Indianapolis, IN, and Evann Chadd of Carmel, IN. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Virgina (Kneedler) Thomas and his parents, Carl Thomas and Pauline (Schwarzenholzer) Thomas.
Funeral arrangements for James Edward Thomas will be held later in December at a private family service, and he and Helen will be interred at the Missouri Veterans’ Cemetery in Higginsville. Arrangements have been entrusted to Meyers Funeral Chapel in Blue Springs. In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association in Jim’s memory. Memories of Jim and words of comfort for his family may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com
“TO HONOR A VETERAN WHO TOOK CARE OF OUR COUNTRY”
Thank you James for your service to our country. Because of your service you have given each and every one of us our freedom.
God bless you for all the sacrifices you have made for our country for me and for all of us.
LINDA PETERSON
WIFE OF A (DECEASED) UNITED STATES ARMY VETERAN