James Stephen Thomas

James Stephen "Steve" Thomas, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at his residence at the age of 73 following a short battle with cancer.

Steve was born on February 15, 1951, the son of the late Carl and Jessie Brown Thomas in Louisville, KY. He led a purposeful life dedicated to serving others and spreading joy wherever he went. Steve's career was marked by his tenure as Materials Manager at Illinois Tool Works until his well-deserved retirement.

He graduated from Butler High School in Shively, KY, then received a track scholarship to Union University. During his time at Union University, Steve was an active member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, where he remained an active alumnus after graduation.

In his leisure time, Steve engaged in various hobbies and interests that brought him immense pleasure. He was known for having a servant's heart and a wonderful sense of humor. Steve found joy in barbecuing, grilling, playing golf, cultivating different types of flowers, and capturing the beauty of nature through photography. He had a passion for loud music and cars, particularly Corvettes and Mustangs.

While at West Jackson Baptist Church, he was a former member of the media ministry. He enjoyed softball where he coached the girls church league softball teams and was a proud member of the men’s orange team.

 He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Judy Barefoot Thomas; and daughters, Abby Scott and husband Chris and Anna Wainscott and husband Justin; father-in-law, Dr. Hyran Barefoot, all of Jackson, TN. Known as Pawpaw, he will be dearly missed by his grandchildren: Joel, Katherine, Andrew, Ella, Graham, and Gavin. Steve enjoyed attending all activities that involved his grandchildren.

SERVICE: The Memorial Service honoring the life of Steve Thomas will be held on Friday, April 26th, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. in the Worship Center at West Jackson Baptist Church, with Dr. Justin Wainscott, Dr. Bob Agee and Dr. Hyran Barefoot officiating.

Visitation with his family and friends will be held on Thursday, April 25, 2024, in the Worship Center at West Jackson Baptist Church beginning at 4:00 p.m. and continuing until 6:00 p.m.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to Hospice of West Tennessee, 1805 Highway 45 Bypass, Jackson, TN 38305 or online at www.wthhopeandhealing.org or to the organization of your choice.

 Arrington Funeral Directors, 148 W. University Parkway, Jackson, TN 38305 731.668.1111 www.arringtonfuneraldiretors.com Facebook/Arrington Funeral Directors.