James "Jimmy" Blair Thomas

James “Jimmy” Blair Thomas, age 80, of Sanford, NC, passed away Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Lee County on June 29, 1944 to the late Walter Blair Thomas and Frances Elizabeth Goodman Thomas.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson Jordan Thomas and sisters Jean Fredrickson, Shirley Byrd, Mary Hardy and Sandra Hall.

Jimmy loved his family but he also loved to work hard.  He owned and operated Thomas Bait & Tackle for 50 plus years.  When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed trips to the mountains and Cherokee.  Jimmy enjoyed the simple life and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife Betty Gilmore Thomas; son Eddie Thomas (Sherry); daughter Diane Dycus (Gaither); brother Glenn Thomas; grandchildren James Thomas, Amber Rocks (Dennis), Holly Caristo (Quintin) and great-grandchildren Noah, Hayden, Michael, Lucia and Frankie.

The family will receive friends Monday, June 23, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Juniper Springs Baptist Church and other times at the home of Eddie & Sherry Thomas, 109 Fiddler Drive, Broadway, NC 27505.  The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM.  Burial will follow at Buffalo Cemetery.

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