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Obituary For James L. Thomas
James L. Thomas Jr., 74, passed away peacefully at his home in Sarasota, Florida, under Hospice care on May 28, 2026. Born on January 14, 1952, in Sarasota to the late Parmelia Mays Underwood (formerly Thomas) and James L. Thomas Sr., James was a proud member of the Mays family, one of Sarasota’s founding families.
James attended Booker schools and was part of the first integrated class at Bay Haven before continuing his education at Sarasota High School, where he excelled as a long-distance runner on the track team. His dedication and work ethic carried into his professional life. He worked for more than 35 years at Spinks-Dryco and Superior Ink and nearly 20 years at Publix.
James was known for his kindness, humor, and storytelling. A lover of animals and an avid collector of vintage movies, he brought joy to those around him with his unwavering willingness to help others, including strangers.
He is deeply missed by his wife of 37 years, Cheryl Thomas; his siblings, Theopolis Thomas (LaWanda), Terria Gibbs (Eric), Debra Thomas Gary (Eric), and Jamie Thomas; as well as many other beloved family members and friends. James was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Keith Thomas.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Jones Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Mt Tabor Missionary Baptist Church. Burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Jones Funeral Home.
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Elba Talavera sent The Peace Lily for James L. Thomas - June 04, 2026
My dear friend James. Getting to know you was a true pleasure. You were not only my friend but also my counselor, my brother and my Guardian Angel. You were there for my most beautiful moments--- but,above all,for my saddest and darkest ones---always,offering a warm embrace and an "I love you Elsa". You always wore a smile,lived a life rich with stories,and possessed a heart filled with kindness.I am left with a heavy heart at no longer being able to see you in person ,yet I hold fast to the promise of our Lord that one day we shall meet again. You and my husband, Freddie--- wait for me up there. Farewell,My Dear Friend James. Elsa Santiago
From Taquana Peters ... I wish I could hug you Or find the words to say, Things that only energy could relay
Touch your forehead to mine so you could see how deeply my spirit speaks. I'd send you my healing and take your grief.
I pray that in this transition your heart finds peace and allows you the grace that your soul needs.
Praying you feel the presence of all of our relations each and every day. Sending love, peace, and strength in a spiritual telegram heading your way.
With love,
Cheryl, We're sending you love and support, and healing energy. I'll always remember James for his warmth, humor, and sweet nature. I love you and am always here for you ... now and in the weeks and months to come.
Love, Dara & Dana
On May 20, 1989, we vowed 'til death do us part. It is with such sorrow that I say good-bye to the man I have loved nearly since we first met 41 years ago and my entire adult life. You the ink-maker and me the newspaper reporter, it seemed inevitable that we would be together forever. Memories are embedded in the fiber of my being and etched into my soul. I know that you did not want to leave me or our happy life together. Be at peace, my love.
My condolences to Cheryl Thomas and the family members. I will miss James, but I know that he will live on in the hearts of all the people whose lives he touched. I was fortunate to call him my brother for almost 40 years. I am blessed and humbled to have known such a generous and giving person. One of my favorite memories is the Christmas holidays. Year after year, he traveled from Sarasota to Panama City to celebrate the holidays and my sister's birthday on the day after Christmas. Without fail, he would unload a car full of presents and gifts, carefully separating the birthday gifts to make sure that his wife understood that Christ's birthday was important, but her birthday was also a day of celebration. Who does that? James, of course! Cheryl, let's continue to make your birthday special ... in memory of James, okay?
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
