James "J.R." Ray Thomas

James Ray (J.R.) Thomas, born on July 1, 1948 in Sweetwater, TX to the late Clyde Ray Thomas and Lawasa Owen Thomas, passed away on 10/18/23 in Lufkin, TX with his children and family by his side.

J.R. worked at Texas Foundry in Lufkin, TX for over 20 years. He also obtained his Associates Degree of Applied Science and Network Administration at Angelina College. J.R. was a faithful member of Trinity Baptist Church. He was also a loving Husband, Father and Grandfather "Poppy" whose family meant the world to him.

Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, James William and Jill Thomas of Cleburne; daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren, Leigh-Ann and James Mathis Sr., James Jr., Carolyn and Hannah Mathis; sister and partner, Suzanne Thomas and Suzie Blanchard of Georgia; sister-in-law, Martha Whisenant of Lufkin; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Asa Pillows of Apple Springs; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jerry and Carolyn Whisenant of Hudson; and a host of nieces and nephews that he loved very much. In addition to his parents, he was proceeded in death by his wife, Sue Whisenant Thomas and his brother in law, Samuel Whisenant.

Graveside services for JR will be held at

11:00AM, Monday, October 23, 2023 in the Berry Cemetery, with Bro. Steve Cowart officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in J.R's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society or Hospice in the Pines.