James Edward Thomas

It is with profound sorrow we announce the death of James Edward Thomas who transitioned on Monday, January 27, 2025.
James Edward Thomas, affectionately known as "Uncle Jimmy," was born on November 29, 1952, in Florence, South Carolina, to the late Henry Thomas and Alberta Anderson Gurley.
James attended McClenaghan High School and was formerly employed with Cysco Ceiling & Installation Company. A man of strong faith, he was a dedicated member of Prayer Tabernacle, where he also served on the Deacon and Usher Board.
James was a caring and outspoken man who took great pride in teaching martial arts and survival skills to his family. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including his daily routine of watching western movies while enjoying BBQ chips. A devoted fan of Jean-Claude Van Damme, he was well known for his hilarious impersonations of the action star. He also had a deep love for football, cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles while adopting the New York Jets for their initials-J.E.T.
A natural storyteller, James loved to dance, laugh, and joke about different war stories. More than anything, he was a beloved uncle, father figure, and mentor to his nieces and nephews, who cherished him as "Uncle Jimmy."
He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Tonya Monique Robinson; his sisters, Everlyn Washington, Janice Cobb, Carrie Lee Arthur Brailsford, and Joann Thomas-Booker; his brothers, George Thomas, Lawrence Starr, Nathaniel Gurley Sr., and Russell Gurley; and his granddaughter, Desiree Latrell McDuffie.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Peggy Ann Robinson; his daughter, Frances Denise (Phillip) Thomas-Rush of Timmonsville, SC; his sons, James Edward (Anitra) Robinson of Rockingham, NC, and Nathaniel Thomas III; his sisters, Carol Renee Gurley, Doretha Thomas Kelly, and Viola Hines; his brother, John Henry Thomas of Orlando, FL; and a special brother, Henry Kelly.
His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Samica Shimae Robinson, Tremaine Tyrese Robinson, William Artrell McDuffie, Carter Luke Robinson, Dontanna Estelle Rush, Dontavious OJ Rush, Jordan Laniah Thomas, Nathaniel Thomas IV, Raheem Ch'Anning Thomas, Zoel Ayanna Michelle Thomas, Mia Jade Thomas, and Janiah Jere Brown; one great grandson Kyler Syair (Rabbit) Robinson.
He is also survived by his beloved aunt, Deloris Johnson, along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will forever treasure his memory.
James Edward Thomas lived a life full of love, laughter, and dedication to his family. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Please keep the Thomas Family in your thoughts and prayers during their time of bereavement.
Arrangements are entrusted to Ideal Funeral Parlor, Inc.
Memorials and Condolences may be mailed to Ideal Funeral Parlor, Inc. 106 E. Darlington Street, Florence, SC 29506 or you may visit www.idealfuneral.com to leave a message for the family.