James A. Thomas' Obituary
James A. Thomas, of Elkins, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, August 28, 2023, at his home at the age of 79 years young. Jim was born on March 3, 1944, in Drakestown, Arkansas, to George Sherman and Eda Edna (Rogers) Thomas. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Janie Thomas, and brother Lynn Thomas.
Jim moved to Omak, Washington when he was 8 years old, and lived there until he was 18, when he returned back to Fayetteville and graduated from Fayetteville High School. After graduation, Jim joined the United States Navy, where he served on the aircraft carrier USS Ranger from 1962 to 1964. He was an avid fisherman, an excellent friend, and a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.
Jim is survived by his wife of 33 years Lucille Thomas of Elkins; his children Mark & Eva Thomas of Canehill, AR, Leanna & Steve Shelley of Greenland, AR, Trina Higgins of Elm Springs, AR, Devon & Holly Nelson of Springdale, AR, Forrest & Audrey Nelson of Springdale, AR; 14 grandchildren Tucker Higgins, Thomas Higgins, Schade Nelson, Korbyn Nelson, Kennedy Nelson, Trace Nelson, Devin Nelson, Lucas Nelson, Rocco Nelson, Michael Thomas, Andrew Shelley, Sarah Price, Andrew Taylor, and Troy Taylor; 1 great-grandchild Maylee Nelson; and many other family members, friends, and fishing buddies.
A Memorial Celebration of Jim’s life will take place on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at 11:00AM Harris Baptist Church in Elkins.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Harris Baptist Church Youth Group: PO Box 205 Elkins, AR 72727
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