John Delbert Thomas

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John D. Thomas, affectionately known as "Boz", “J.D.”, and “John D”, was born on October 8, 1936, in Louisville, Kentucky, and passed away on August 22, 2024, at his home in Corbin, Kentucky surrounded by his loving family and friends. 

John was a dedicated family man and a proud veteran, serving as a Sergeant in the Army National Guard. He enjoyed a fulfilling, 40-year career with CSX Transportation and retired in 1996 as the Terminal Supervisor, where he earned the respect of his colleagues and contributed significantly to the community. An avid golfer, John spent many joyful days on the greens, sharing his passion for the sport with friends and family. He was also a lifetime active member of the American Legion Post 88, and Vice Commander of Post 88 Honor Guard, where he found camaraderie and purpose among fellow veterans. 

In addition to his career and hobbies, John cherished traveling cross country in his motor home with his beloved wife, creating lasting memories along the way. 

John is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Donna Patricia "Pat" Thomas. He was a loving father to two daughters, Kathy Hoskins (husband Ralph) of Corbin, Kentucky and Karin Rains (husband Billy) of Woodbine, Kentucky, and grandfather to Christopher Thomas (wife Rachel) of Louisville, Kentucky and Allyson Van Arsdall (husband Jack) of Georgetown, Kentucky, brother Ronald Gene Thomas (wife Nancy) of Louisville, Kentucky, brothers-in-law Paul Louis Jackson of Corbin, Kentucky and Donn Ryan of Louisville, Kentucky. His family continued to grow with great-granddaughters Ayshia Bray, Amelia Bray, and Lilly Rains of Woodbine, Kentucky, along with great-grandsons Caleb Thomas and Luke Thomas of Louisville, Kentucky, and special friend Gary of London, Kentucky. John also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and close friends who will remember him fondly. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Thomas and Dellas Pearl Thomas, as well as brothers Charles “Rocky” Thomas, and Karl Thomas, and grandson Adam Michael Bray. 

John will be remembered for his dedication to both his family and his country, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, service, and adventure. 

Visitation will be held at Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home in Corbin, Kentucky from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday, August 26, 2024. John will receive full military honors at 7 p.m. conducted by the members of American Legion Post 88 with the Holy Rosary at 8 p.m. 

Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Corbin, Kentucky at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, with Fr. Damian Anumba officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society in his honor. The ACS memorial page can be reached by clicking the logo or link below: