With bravery, courage, patience, and compassion, Jimmy Thomas completed his earthly stay and entered into eternal peace Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at Southeast Texas Medical Center at the age of 88. He had been surrounded for several days by his children, family and loving friends. Jimmy was born on September 24, 1930 in Arnaudville, Louisiana; son of James and Hilda Thomas.

In 1946, when he was 16 years old he lost his sweet and devoted mother. Traveling with his three small sisters from Oregon to Port Arthur, he established his home. He remained a loving brother, attentive to his sisters’ needs throughout his life. Jimmy was a student at St. Mary’s Catholic School and a graduate of Bishop Byrne High School class of 1950. He formed lifelong friendships that began over 80 years ago and sustained him until his death.

Jimmy proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the US Marine Corp during the Korean Conflict where he was wounded and returned home receiving both the Korean and U.N Service Medals. All that know him are grateful for his service and sacrifice.

His most important friendship was with Rose Mary Watts whom he met in school. This blossomed into a 38 year marriage.  Their union produced five children, 7 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren all of whom adored their Papaw and Grandpa.  The family home of “Puzzy” and Jimmy was always a warm gathering place, where all were welcome. Their home was frequently filled with family, friends, and friends of his children celebrating all occasions. His favorite days were spent when friends (new and old) would drop by for a cup of coffee and talk shop or travel down memory lane. He will be missed by many who shared his love and warmth in the family home.

Upon his return from Korea, he went to work for Gulf Oil Company where he was a master machinist, an avid member and representative/officer of the AFLCIO union; where he positively influenced the working conditions of thousands of workers. He retired in 1989 after 39 years of service. During retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, lifelong friends, casino, cards, and coffee buddies. His bi-monthly card games brought him joy and the nickname “Jimmy #1”.

Jimmy was a member of the Knights of Columbus (Immaculate Conception) where he spent many hours cooking and enjoying the food and fellowship.  He always made sure this time ended with dessert and coffee.  He enjoyed his sweets! Jimmy volunteered with the United Board of Missions where he contributed countless hours of service to this organization helping those in need. His service hours were matched by Chevron corporation. This experience touched his life and he frequently talked of the bravery of those who sought help and how much he enjoyed working with them.

While the life events of Jimmy Thomas are numerous and significant, those who know him will remember him as a person who had a sense of humor, truest of friends, loved researching history at the library and on his cell phone, where “Siri” became his friend.  His favorite pastime was listening to the tunes of the 1940’s and 50’s. He loved getting in his car, taking a drive around town, and listening to Frank Sinatra.  Cherishing the life- long friendships of BBHS class of 1950, Jimmy looked forwarded to the times they would gather together.  He spoke of the love for his friends frequently, those past and present and often expressed sadness for those that left this earth before him.

His family and friends will remember him as a loving and devoted husband, proud and supportive father, wonderful grandfather and great grandfather generous and caring uncle, wonderful brother in law and a supportive and kind friend.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his devoted wife Rose Mary, mother Hilda, father Jimmy, twin sisters Helen Robin and Marion Kring, and his grandson Mark Aaron Sadler.  He is survived by his beloved children: Linda Bowlin (David McGuire) of Timpson, TX, Jimmy Wayne Thomas of San Antonio, TX, Ronnie Thomas of Groves, TX, Terri Johnson (Michael Breaux) of Port Neches, TX, Cheryl Wright (Scott Wright) of Bryan, TX, sister Dorothy Rogers of Lafayette, LA, sister-in-law Virginia Watts Copeland (John) of Horseshoe Bay, TX, brother-in-law Bruns Watts, Jr. of Arlington, TX, and former son-in-law Jeff Johnson.  His grandchildren, Carl Sadler, Darrell Sadler (Stephanie Sadler), Jimmy Joe Thomas, Kristin Thomas, Lindsey Thomas, TJ Wright and Tori Wright. His great-grandchildren, Brian Sadler, Kayleigh Sadler, Cheyanne Sadler, Josie Sadler, and Alaina Sadler, and Chyanne Thomas.  Numerous nieces, nephews and his many friends.

The family will celebrate the life of Jimmy Thomas on Saturday, November 17, 2018 with a visitation from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM. Services will follow at 2:00 PM at Clayton Thompson Funeral Home in Groves. Burial will follow services at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be: Carl Sadler, Darrell Sadler, Jimmy Joe Thomas, T J Wright, Scott Wright, David McGuire, Jeff Johnson, and Michael Breaux.

Honorary pallbearers will be: Jerry Sonnier, James David, Jr., Cecil Bourgouis, Sam Loycano, Jim Deloney, and Bubbie Wyble.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Best Hospice, United Board of Missions and the Diocese of Beaumont – Catholic Church. The family wishes to thank the staff at Best Hospice and Medical Center of Southeast Texas for their loving care during his final days.