James Thomas Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Carthage Chapel - Jacksonville on May 12, 2022.
It is with profound sadness that the family of James Wesley Thomas Sr., and long-life resident of Jacksonville, FL, announce his passing on May 3rd, 2022, at the young age of 62.
He will be lovingly remembered by his son, James Wesley Thomas Jr. (Emma Crawford Thomas ), ex-wife, Genevera Thomas (Mother of James Jr), ex-wife Deborah Thomas, grandchildren: Joi Jones, Brianna Reed and Bella Vera Thomas; Siblings: Belinda Grant, Samuel L Thomas (Beverly), Valarie L Maxwell, Yvette R Thomas, Karen L Thomas and numerous beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents: Samuel Lee Thomas Sr. and Lola Mae Smith; and a sister, Vivian Reed. He will be dearly missed by his family and all of his many friends who meant so much to him.
James was born December 30, 1959, in Jacksonville Florida. He graduated from Jean Ribault High School, attended Bethune Cookman College and later Seminary School in Pensacola, Florida. He was a member of The Bethel Church where, as a child, participated in the Youth Choir and served as an usher. As an adult James united with Church of Jacksonville and, later on, became a member of Ambassadors of Hope Ministries pastored by his lifelong friend, Reginald Davis (Deceased 2021). James was a United States Army Veteran and was employed by the Jacksonville Sherriff's Office (JSO) for over 19 years. While serving as a Police Officer, he simultaneously took on many mentorship and community service positions. One of his greatest joys came from serving on the Police Athletic League. He spent his life serving his God, country and local community. Many people have come to tell their stories of the positive impact James had on their lives. After retiring from JSO, he went on to become an entrepreneur. He owned a dry cleaning business in downtown Jacksonville named, "Windows and Blessings". He later became a Private Investigator (PI), opened his own PI Firm and even became a certified bail Bondsmen. He was always excited about the next adventure and never hesitated to put dreams into action. James loved and cherished family and was a strong believer and follower of Jesus Christ. His biggest goal in life was to be "Christ-like" and nothing that came his way could compromise his Faith in God. He later became an Ordained Minister and was able to continue fulfilling his natural ability to impact lives. Ambassador of hope ministry.
Mr. Thomas, may be viewed on Sunday, May 15, 2022, at Carthage Chapel from 3:00 p.m. Until 5:00 p.m.
A Celebration of Life will be held at The Bethel Church on May 16, 2022, at 11:00 am. The Bethel Church is located at 215 Bethel Baptist Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202. James will be laid to rest with full Military Honors at the National Cemetery located at 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218.
In lieu of flowers, please send any donations, made in memory of James Wesley Thomas, Sr., to the college fund of his Granddaughter, Bella Thomas. Donations can be made by Personal Check, Certified Check, Cashiers Check Or Money Order.
Checks may be made out to, "Bella Thomas 79x90x30" and mailed to;
Merrill Lynch
P.O. Box 962
Newark, NJ 07101
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