James L. Thomas

Son of James L Thomas and Edna Alverna Johnson Thomas Duneghy, he was born in Owensboro, Kentucky, on November 27, 1932, into a large, godly family. He was preceded in death by his siblings Charlotte Duneghy, Thomas Duneghy, Teddy Duneghy, Maurice Duneghy, Carrol Duneghy, Charlie Duneghy, and Marjorie Louise Lash.

At the age of 19, James enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving for 30 years before retiring on July 31, 1981. During his time in the Corps, he served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, holding multiple roles and responsibilities, including Lead Drill Instructor at Parris Island in the 1960s and Senior Staff NCO in charge of the Marine Security Detail at the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, Turkey. In recognition of his service, he received numerous awards, including the Combat Action Ribbon, Cross of Gallantry, Korean Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two stars, and the Purple Heart. After retiring from the Marine Corps, he worked for an additional 20 years with the United States Postal Service, where he also retired.

He deeply loved time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, many of whom were inspired by his example to serve in the military. His loved ones remember him for his generous and forgiving heart, his joy for life, and his unwavering devotion to God.

James’s life exemplified faithful and honorable service: he was devoted to God, to his family, to his country, and to his community. He loved the Lord and walked this earth as a living example of God’s love. A lifelong member of the church choir, he always carried a hymn in his heart to share. He was patient, joyful, kind, and forgiving, embodying Jesus’s example in his daily life. His family and friends affirm that they are better people because of his influence. He was a bright light in the world, and through his life of service, that light continues to shine.

James is survived by his wife of 40 years, Thelma Thomas, and his children Ida Weaver, Mark Thomas, Amy Decker (Bill), and Kyle White. He is also survived by his siblings Verna Thomas Johnson, Marianne Williams, Hugh Marshall Duneghy, Langston Duneghy, Edna Jorene Goodwin (Jerry), Sylvia Reed, and Phoebe James. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Twala Dooley-Saunders (Xavier), James Thomas Dooley (Geneva), Chase Decker (Meaghan), Austin Decker (Katie), Alexandria Wagoner (Nate), and Christian White (Allison); great-grandchildren Darius Saunders, Sabyn Bradley, Kendyl Bradley, Kellan Saunders, Ethan Dooley, Jameson Dooley, Damien White, Chloe White; and his great-great-grandchildren.

A visitation for James will be held Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Promise Land Baptist Church, 10343 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32221. Followed by a celebration of life at 11:00 AM. A committal will occur Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 2:30 PM at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218.