He was born December 6, 1933 in Springerton, IL, the son of the late Clell and Vern (Knight) Thomas.  Jimmy had a lifelong love and passion for farming, was an avid Nascar fan and enjoyed his trips to Florida while riding his Harley Davidson.  He was also an active member of the McLeansboro Elks Lodge and Eagles Aerie as well as the Grayville Moose Lodge.

Jimmy is survived by his wife Carolyn Thomas of Springerton, IL; son Rickey Lee and companion Gayle Thomas of McLeansboro, IL; daughter Rhonda Leah and husband Scott France of McLeansboro, IL; three grandchildren: Rickie Diane and husband Brad Martin, James Nathan “Jamy” and companion Nata Thomas and Jenny Ward; seven great grandchildren: Zachary and Kendal Martin, Malayna and Sadie Smothermon, Ryah Lee and Eva Thomas, Hunter Newman and Ryder Williams;  three great-great grandchildren: Raelyn Fox, Liam Smothermon and Tripp Lee Thomas; brothers Larry and wife Ruth Thomas and Vernice Ray “Bud” Thomas and wife Dorothy Sue, both of McLeansboro, IL.

Graveside funeral services will be held Monday, December 7, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at Old Springer Cemetery near McLeansboro with Rev. Ron Lamp officiating.  Those attending the service are asked to meet at the cemetery.  Masks will be required and social distancing guidelines will be observed.

Online condolences may be shared at www.gholsonfuneralhome.com.

The Gholson Funeral Home of McLeansboro is entrusted with arrangements.