James R. Thomas Jr.

James Riley Thomas, Jr., age 77, of Paola passed away October 2, 2014 at his home. James was born March 29, 1937 to James Riley Thomas, Sr. and Gladys Lucille (Detrick) Thomas in Kansas City, Kansas. He was united in marriage to Marion H. Baswell on May 6, 1961 in Miami, Oklahoma. James was in the United States Marine Corp for four years. He was a plumber for 50 years and was a member of the NRA. His hobbies included his grandchildren and great grandchildren, fishing, golfing, woodworking and oil painting. James loved being outside as much as possible and enjoyed working on his boat. He also liked playing Texas Hold"em with his family. James was preceded in death by his wife Marion Thomas, parents, and sister Shirley Gardner. He is survived by his children Muffin (Dave) Nichols, Jim (Diane) Thomas III, and Sarah Thomas all of Paola; grandchildren Jeron (Kendra) Fuller of Paola, Michael (Alyssa) Thomas of Olathe, and Michelle Thomas of Paola; great grandchildren Kyia, Josslyn, and Talen Fuller; sister JoAnn Smith; and brother Frank N. Thomas. Memorial contributions may be given to Miami County Cancer Foundation or Vitas Hospice. To share a memory of James or leave a special condolence message for his family, please click the "Share Memories" button above.