James A. Thomas, 76, of Columbia, died Friday, September 29, 2023 at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born September 15, 1947, in Adair County to the late Roy Freeman and Dorothy Smith Thomas. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ray Thomas, Danny “Boone” Thomas and Robert “Radio” Thomas.
James was a Veteran of the U.S. Army, having served 1968 - 1970 during the Vietnam Era. He retired in 1998 after 20 years of service with the Department of Justice, Bureau of Prisons. He was a member of Pollards Chapel Church and enjoyed watching his UK Wildcats, golfing, Kansas City Chiefs, and for the past five years, he enjoyed spending his time on his farm.
Survivors include his wife, Carole Rowe Thomas of Columbia; one son, James Wesley Thomas of Campbellsville; two daughters, Angie Mills (Tim) and Stephanie Thomas all of Campbellsville; five step-children, Jeff Neagle of Somerset, Jennifer Boils (Dale) of Campbellsville, Thad Keltner (Courtney) of Columbia, Sarah Simmons (Jon) of Iowa, Ethan Keltner (Emily) of Columbia; two brothers, Harold “Catfish” Thomas of Georgetown, anf Donnie “Moochie” Thomas of Campbellsville; six sisters, Betty Wingler of Campbellsville, Charlotte Coffey of Columbia, Faye Underwood of Campbellsville, Pauline Teater of Campbellsville, Kim Skaggs of Hodgenville and Karen Brown of Campbellsville; four grandchildren; 10 step-grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.
The family received friends on Monday, October 2, 2023 at Grissom-Martin Funeral Home with a time of Remembrance. Cremation was chosen.
Graveside memorial service will be held today, Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 2 p.m. in Columbia Cemetery with Pastor Glenn Lewis officiating.
Full military honors were presented by V.F. W. Post 6097.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a donation to Gideon Bibles, Hosparus-Green River or Pollards Chapel Church. These can be made at the funeral home.
