James 'Tom' Thomas

James Darwin "Tom" Thomas, 81, of Waycross, Georgia, was a World War II veteran who worked for Georgia Power Company. Mr. Thomas died Wednesday, November 7, 2007, at his home, after an extended illness.

He was born in Brantley County to Clinton A. Thomas and Clara Bartlett Thomas.

Mr. Thomas worked for more than 30 years with Georgia Power Company, retiring as a supervisor.

He was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, the St. Ignace Moose Lodge 999, and the American Legion Post 10. He had lifetime memberships in the Waycross Elks Lodge 369, and VFW Post 4382. He was a former member of the Waycross Exchange Club.

He served his country for eight years during World War II in the United States Navy. He always participated in the Navy Fleet Reunion which included the USS Robert H. McCard and was a plank owner who served aboard the USS Capricornus.

Mr. Thomas is survived by his wife of 56 years, Peggy Lambert Thomas of Waycross, a sister, V. Alice Stevens of Waycross, three nieces and their families, Marie Lee of Waycross, Mary Alice and Dan Wainwright of Waycross, Suzanne and Chris Usry of Douglas, a nephew and his family, Freddie and Sheila Stevens of Savannah, two brothers-in-law and their families, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Lambert and family of St. Ignace, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Lambert and family of Ishpeming, several great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and other relatives, and his beloved dog, Missy.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, W.G. Thomas.

A graveside funeral was held Saturday, November 10, at Thomas Cemetery. The Georgia Power Company members served as honorary pallbearers. Military rites were performed by the United States Navy.

Mrs. Joseph R. Lambert Jr., Mrs. Brenda Spencley, and Mrs. Jane Weiss, all of St. Ignace, attended the services, representing the Lambert family and the St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church.