James Thomas' Funeral Service Video

James "Jim" Ray Thomas, age 87 of Appleton, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 4, 2023 at Meadowbrook in Appleton. Jim was born on July 17, 1935 in New London to the late Lewis and Jesse (Hoag) Thomas.  He graduated from Washington High School with the class of 1953.  Jim played as an offensive lineman on the high school football team.  Jim enlisted in the US Navy at the age of 17, requiring his father to sign for him to join. He served his country in the Korean War, afterwards re-enlisting as a career Navy man, attaining the rank of Chief Petty Officer and served as a radioman. He married Elizabeth Plaza on September 25, 1970 in the Philippines. After serving 20 years in the US Navy, Jim retired.  Jim held several jobs, but nothing more fulfilling than being a stay-at-home dad.  In his later years, Jim enjoyed reading- especially the Bible. He was a sports fan and loved all Wisconsin teams.  Jim was a quite man with a quirky sense of humor.

Jim is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; his children, Allan Thomas, Marianne Thomas and Louis Thomas; grandchildren, Shae (Joe), Abigail, Hailey and Parker Thomas; great-grandchildren, Sullivan and Jaeden and his brother, Neil Thomas.

The Funeral Service for Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 14, 2023 at Cline & Hanson Funeral Home in New London.  The visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service.  Burial will be at Floral Hill Cemetery, New London, where full military honors will be held.