James David Thomas November 20, 1927 - July 24, 2020

November 20, 1927 ~ July 24, 2020

James David Thomas was born in Madera, CA to Bulah Austin and James Homer Thomas on November 20, 1927 and passed away at the age of 92 in Turlock, California.

Right out of high school, James enlisted in the Navy August 2, 1948 and served 3 years as Navel Yeoman Second Class where he received a “Good Conduct Medal”.

His hobbies were hunting and fishing.  He enjoyed working on his ranch, taking care of his animals and garden.  He loved plants and had a natural “green thumb”. He was a member and at one time president of the Appaloosa Horse Club, Stanislaus County.

James occupation was in auto parts sales and on his weekend off from his full time job he worked as a relief milker.  After his well earned retirement he would volunteer his time working as helper in his grandchildren’s classroom where he was kindly referred to as “Grandpa Thomas”.  The teachers would debate which classroom he was going to help in on the days he volunteered”¦which pretty much was Monday through Friday.

James always had a kind and giving heart.  He was always willing to help out his family, a neighbor or a friend with anything from building a chicken coupe, barn, mending a fence with whatever and wherever there was a need.  He knew Jesus as his Savior.  He attended Cornerstone Covenant Church, Turlock, CA with his family prior to his declining health.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Evangeline Thomas (2013); his parents Bulah Austin and James H. Thomas; sister Thelma Simmons; grandson Conan Thomas and great granddaughter Heaven Holman.  He is survived by his son Glenn Thomas; daughter Karen Ward; sisters Lola Hayes and Viola Glender.  He has 8 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

Graveside service will be held at Lakewood Memorial Park on Monday, August 3, 2020 at 10:00a.m.