James Michael Thomas

James Michael Thomas, age 39, of Hot Springs, went to be with the Lord, Sunday, March 2, 2014. He was born on November 6, 1974 at Kincheloe Air Force Base, Michigan, the son of Donald Thomas and Marianna Hess Thomas. He was a member of Crossgate Church. James graduated from Cabot High School where he was an all-state football player. He also played football and was a graduate from Arkansas Tech University. After college, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force from which he was retired. In 2006, James was deployed to Iraq, during operation IRAQI Freedom, and is a recipient of the Iraqi campaign metal, for his service, he was awarded the Air Force expeditionary service metal. He loved working on old cars and trucks, but his greatest love was his sons and he enjoyed coaching their football teams. James is survived by two sons, Caleb Thomas and Nathan Thomas, both of San Angelo, Texas; his parents, Donald and Marianna Thomas of Beebe; his brother, Bryan Anthony Thomas of Cabot; his sister and brother-in-law, Mary Theresa and David Bricker of Russellville, Alabama; and two nephews, Michael Bricker of Russellville, Alabama and Kade Thomas of Cabot, extended family, and a host of wonderful friends. Memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, March 8, 2014 at Crossgate Church with Rev. Shawn Bernard officiating. Military honors will be presented by Thaddeus H. Caraway, VFW Post 2278 Honor Guard, Hot Springs. Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Smith Funeral Home, Hot Springs. In lieu of flowers, if you wish to remember James with a charitable gift, please send them to Crossgate Church, 3100 East Grand Avenue, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901. Guest registry is at www.davis-smith.com.