Jimmy Thomas

Jimmy Thomas, age 81, passed away peacefully at his home in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee, on June 11, 2026. He was born on August 8, 1944.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Brenda Sue Thomas (September 18, 1946 – May 19, 2021).

He is survived by his loving children: daughter Debra Ann Saffer and son-in-law Matthew Lynn Saffer; daughter Lisa Gail Thomas; and son Jimmy Darrell Thomas and daughter-in-law Denise Elaine Thomas.

He also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren: William Kevin Spurgeon Jr. and wife Chasitie Noele Spurgeon; Sarah Katherine LaMonte and husband Alex Joel LaMonte II; Jessica Lewayne Napier and husband Joseph Evan Wayne Napier; Ashley Nicole Thomas Sharpe and husband Christopher Aaron Sharpe; Mikaluh Brianna Thomas; and Joshua Brentton Thomas.

Jimmy was also blessed with ten precious great-grandchildren: William Hayden Spurgeon, Henry Declan Spurgeon, Astrid Luna Spurgeon, Leo Alexander LaMonte, Charles Axle Thomas Sweat, Leland Wayne Thomas, Nathan Bentley Thomas, Everly Faith Thomas, Chloe Marie Mills, and Mason Lonnie Sharpe.

Jimmy was loved by everyone who met him and took the time to get to know him. He had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and, on occasion, could be found standing in a creek panning for gold. A proud veteran, he served his country honorably in the United States Army.

Above all else, Jimmy loved his family. He never missed an opportunity to tell those he cared about how much they meant to him. Whether you were leaving for a few hours or a few days, you could always count on a hug and an “I love you” before parting ways. He was known for spontaneously reciting poetry and especially loved The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe, which he had committed to memory.

Though the world feels a little colder without Jimmy in it, his family finds comfort in knowing he has been reunited with Brenda. They can imagine him once again sharing stories, laughter, and treasured memories with the love of his life.

Jimmy's legacy of love, devotion to family, and kindness to others will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.