James Robert Thomas

James was born October 27, 1931 in Smoaks, SC to the late Herbert Jerome and Reno Bessemere Thomas.

He graduated from Smoaks High School in 1950. He serviced in the Army National Guard for 9 years. During this time he met and married the love of his life, Gwendolyn Wiles Thomas. James retired as a Supervisory Supply Technician, Naval Supply Center, at the Charleston Naval Shipyard after 32 ½ years. He was a member of the Cokesbury United Methodist Church, North Charleston, SC. James belonged to the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, Chapter 72 and Mariners Masonic Lodge No. 2. James enjoyed gardening, Gospel Singing, visiting those who were sick and shut-in, he also loved to travel; having taken many trips with Top of the Line Tours where he met many traveling Friends.

James is survived by his children: J. Robert (Julia) Thomas, of Rock Hill, SC and Michael (Sharon) Thomas of Ravenel, SC. His grandchildren: Mark Thomas, Chapin, SC; Sarah (Nick) Shaheen, Norfolk, VA; and McCray (Jill) Johnstone, Lubbock, TX. His great-grandchildren: Dylan and Audrey Thomas, Chapin, SC; Lilly Johnstone, Lubbock, TX; and Greyson Shaheen, Norfolk, VA. Also, many nieces and nephews.

A Visitation will be held November 2, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Cokesbury United Methodist Church, 4990 Dorchester Road, North Charleston, SC 29418. The Celebration of Life Service will follow from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the church. There will be a private burial at Dorchester Memorial Gardens.

Memorials can be made to Cokesbury United Methodist Church or/and Meals on Wheels of Charleston, C/O Charleston Senior Citizens’ Services, Inc., 299 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401.

The family would like to thank several long – term Home Instead caregivers over the past 14 years, and most recently the staff of NHC HealthCare of Charleston. Special thanks also to caring and supportive neighbors, Marian Gentry and Carol Sayer.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.carolinamemorial.com for the Thomas family.