The obituary, shown below, was copied from
https://www.debaptiste.com/obituary/james-thomas-sr
(it may or may not still be available there)
James Leroy Thomas, Sr.
January 31, 1955 - May 16, 2020
James Leroy Thomas Sr aka “Jimmy”, was born January 31, 1955 in Kennett Square, Pa to the late Charles Miller and Gladys Rebecca Thomas. He passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2020.
He was educated in the Kennett Square School District and graduated with the class of ‘74. He worked many years with the food industry and retail.
Jimmy was a member of St. Paul’s Baptist Church of West Chester, Pa for many years and later became a member of New Life in Christ Fellowship in Coatesville, Pa under the leadership of Dr. Dan K. Williams. He had a strong relationship with the Lord and was never shy in spreading the word to those around him. Jimmy loved spreading the word either through interacting with friends, men’s fellowship, or someone new if it meant another opportunity to spread the word.
Jimmy always had a heart for his children. He never fell short of telling the world how proud he was of them. He was always present for their achievements whether it be academic, or athletic, big or small, he often expressed his admiration for them.
Jimmy had a heart for people and would give whatever he had for others. He offered words of encouragement, and comfort during challenging times.
Jimmy was dedicated to everything he put his mind to. He challenged himself in becoming a great bowler, which ultimately allowed him to be a part of the TAT (aka True Amateur Tournaments) organization. Jimmy often got the whole family involved in bowling. He was also a competitive man at heart. He enjoyed playing basketball at the local Community Center each weekend which allowed him to meet many of his friends. Its moments like watching him on the side line that we will always remember.
Not only did Jimmy love bowling and basketball, he also loved his LA Lakers and Pittsburgh Steelers. He was never scared to share his passion about the Steelers. Jimmy would always tell you stats and Super Bowl wins regardless of how they were playing that season. However, if the Steelers or Lakers lost, all things went quiet in the Thomas household for a few days.
In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by his brother “Bucky” and Aunt Peggy.
Left to cherish his memory, Jimmy is survived by his son James Thomas Jr, daughter Jasmine Thomas; brother Donald, brother Robert, brother in law Monte, Aunt Cookie, Aunt Dolly and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends.