Mr. James Oliver Thomas, much loved son, brother, uncle and friend to many, found the perfect healing peace of The Father in heaven on April 27, 2012.

James was born in St. Petersburg, Florida, on September 21, 1966. He was a graduate of LaGrange College with a degree in business. James had served two years in The United States Navy. His love of dogs resulted in his career as a dog groomer and he shared his expertise with Four Paws. Music was a passion in James’ life and he was accomplished on keyboard instruments, and played in the handbell choir at Newnan First Baptist Church, and also played French horn in the church orchestra.

He was in the creative process for a piece for French horn at the time of his death. He is survived by his parents, Larry and Frances Thomas of Newnan; his brothers, Larry D. (and Melody) Thomas of Myakka City, FL, David Thomas (and Ginger) of Holualoa, HI. His nieces are Brooke (and Jeffrey) Orr of Charlotte, NC, Brittany (and Michael) Wilder and their daughter Rilynn Wilder of Parrish, FL. There is also a large extended family of cousins.

Funeral arrangements are by McKoon Funeral Home at 38 Jackson Street in Newnan, where the funeral service will be Thursday, May 3 at 11 a.m. in the McKoon chapel with Dr. Jimmy Patterson officiating. Interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday evening between 6 and 8 p.m. James’ memory may be honored by a contribution in his name to For Paws Rescue: forpawsrescue@aol.com .

Online condolences may be expressed at www.mckoon.com .

McKoon Funeral Home, 770-253-4580