Born in McCormick County, South Carolina on September 14, 1943, he was the son of the late Janie Bell Norman and James Ollie Thomas, Sr.

He was employed with Greenwood Mills where he retired as a Tie End Operator after many years of service.

After being called into the ministry, he became the Pastor of Straight Gate Holiness Church in McCormick, South Carolina from 1990 to 2010. He continued to follow his calling later in 2010, he established and became the founder of The Open Door Holiness Church in Greenwood, South Carolina where he pastored until his death.

He leaves to cherish his memories are three daughters, Janie Harrison, Miriam Christian and Hope Thomas all of Greenwood, South Carolina; one son, James Thomas of Greenwood, South Carolina; four sisters, Ethel Wright, Elizabeth (Cecil) Wright and Mary Ellen (Willie) Durant all of McCormick, South Carolina and Diana (Wallace) Lewis, of Greenwood, South Carolina; two brothers, William (Linda) Thomas and Larry Wideman both of Greenwood, South Carolina; 9 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, a special son, George (Nakisha) Durant, 1 God son, Joshua (Shalina) Durant and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, February 6, 2021 at Overbrook Cemetery, US Highway 221 South in McCormick, South Carolina with Apostle James Timothy Herrington officiating and Bishop James Neely and Elder Billy Wardlaw Presiding. Assisting will be Pastor Michael Brown, Elder John Bogg and Deacon Charlie Grimes.

Pallbearers and Flower Bearers will be family and friends.

Parks Funeral Home is assisting the Thomas Family.