James Thomas

James J. "Papa" Thomas, 79, beloved Father, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2020 at Midland Memorial Hospital, Midland, Texas. He was born on January 23, 1941 in Karnack, TX, to James and Annie (Clark) Thomas. He is survived by his daughters; Tonya Thomas, Dianna Bryan, Misty Thomas, son; James Thomas, grandchildren; Aaron (Carina) Thomas, Matthew (Andrea) Thomas, T.J. Bryan, great grandchildren; Rhett Thomas, Nolan Thomas, brother; Robert (Debra) Thomas, sisters; Barbara (Jimmy) Smith, Wanda (Ed Alva) Jernigan and many nieces, nephews other family and friends. James served in the National Guard of Texas and as a Reserve for the United States Army from May 31, 1958 until May 30, 1961.

James loved his family and his community, many generations of children here in Pecos knew him simply as "Papa Thomas". He coached his children and grandchildren in many sports and had championship winning teams. He taught nurses new to the U.S. how to drive to get their driver's licenses. As a mail carrier for the USPS James went above and beyond for people on his route who needed help. He built friendships with the people on his route and made sure their children would have presents for Christmas or coats in the winter.

James was a proud member of the AFL-CIO, and was a Union Representative for many years, after his retirement he was asked to stay on as a Union Rep until they were able to find another. He was an avid Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorns fan. James loved music of all genre, but especially Elvis and The Jersey Boys.

Visitation will be at Pecos Funeral Home, 607 W. 3rd Street, Pecos, Texas 79772, on Thursday, October 8, 2020 from 10:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. Funeral Services will be Friday, October 9, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. at the 1st Presbyterian Church, 401 S. Plum, Pecos, Texas 79772, interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery.

Due to the COVID19 outbreak, only 40 members of the immediate family will be allowed into the funeral home for the visitation and the church for the services, and masks will be required and social distancing will be followed. Any friends wishing to attend are invited to the cemetery for the interment, which is outdoors, please be safe, wear masks and abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines.