James A. Thomas

James Arnold Thomas was known as Jim, Arnold, and his favorite, Dadoo by those who knew him. He led a life inspired by his love of God and his family. Jim peacefully went to be with his Lord and Savior early on October 5, 2024. He was born in New Albany, Indiana June 2, 1943, He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Anna McGough. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Beverly Thomas, and his two children, Trachele Spence (Matt) and Allen Thomas (Nancy). He was blessed with 5 granddaughters: Caroline, Maddie, Anna Grace, Mary Claire, and Sarah Beth.

Jim was devoted to his family. Although his brothers and sisters, Allen McGough ( Diane) Elliot McGough ( Armida), Fern Braeutigam ( Dewaine), Sharon Godfrey, and George McGough (Lisa) lived in other states, he remained close to them through frequent phone calls. He also enjoyed meeting with them along with his nieces and nephews for family reunions and celebrations. 

Jim began his telecommunications career by working for AT&T in Bossier City, Louisiana as a linesman and was a proud member of the CWA during that time. As a young man, he also served in the Louisana National Guard and later in the Army Reserves where he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. While a linesman, he attended night school and was promoted to a management position. He was transferred to Atlanta in 1971 where he finished his degree at Georgia State University. After moving to North Little Rock in 1977 he continued his Bell System career at SouthWestern Bell as a long-range planning engineer and furthered his education at UALR, earning his MBA. 

An avid outdoor sportsman, he enjoyed spending time on the Arkansas River fishing. in the woods and fields deer and quail hunting. He loved the mountains; canoeing and hiking were two of his favorite activities before his health began to decline. 

He was a talented woodworker, a hobby he picked up post-retirement. 

Jim was a devout Catholic. As a member of Immaculate Conception Parish, he worked on various committees and served as an usher for many years until his health prevented him from doing so. Jim was a member of the Knights of Columbus ( Council 6263) for over 40 years achieving the rank of 4th Degree Knight. During that time he helped run their Tuesday night Bingo, served as Grand Knight, and volunteered to work behind the scenes as needed. He was honored to have his family chosen as the Arkansas K of C Family of the Year in the 1980’s. He and his wife Beverly were members of the same marriage Encounter Group that met monthly for over 30 years. 

Jim Thomas lived his life using his faith and his Bible as his guide. He believed in moral truths and had high expectations. He would give what he had. He loved a good time and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. 

Visitation will be held at 6:00PM on Friday, October 11, 2024 at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home (1921 Main Street) with a rosary following at 7:00PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.