James Albert Thomas, Jr., was one of thirteen children born of the late Albert and Doretha Thomas on December 27, 1940, in Perry, GA. James Albert, also known as Albert Jr., Al and Papa Al was raised in Houston County area where he remained until graduating high school. During his high school years at the Houston County Training School, he was a star athlete that helped his football team advance to the North Georgia state championship in 1960. In addition to his high school achievements, he helped support the family through his hard work and talent for figuring out how to do things more efficiently.

After graduating high school, Al enlisted in the United States Air Force, where his experiences became seeds of advancement for many of his family members who followed in his footsteps. Al was assigned to bases in the United States and overseas. The US bases were in Florida, New Jersey, Idaho, South Carolina, Nevada, and Georgia. His overseas bases were in Thailand, Korea, Spain, and Germany. Al continued his high achieving ways in the Air Force where he advanced up the ranks to Master Sergeant. Al returned to his home state of Georgia late into his career. After retiring from the Air Force, he worked and retired as a civil servant at Warner Robins Air Force Base, Warner Robins, GA. His legacy in the Air Force was one of excellence, serving as an inspiration for those who had the privilege of working beside him.

In his pastime, he was a star baseball player and played on the elite team that traveled to various bases to compete. In addition to playing baseball, his hobbies included: umpiring, golfing all over the country with his golf club, interstate motor biking with his motorcycle club, and meeting fellow veterans at the American Legion. He was also committed to serving the Lord through his service as a deacon at Beulahland Baptist Church in Byron, GA and a trustee at Union Grove Baptist Church in Warner Robins, GA.

In 2013, he married the love of his life, Earline Stewart-Thomas. His family stood as the cornerstone of his existence, providing him with the cherished role of 'Papa Al'. Beyond his military service, Papa Al was known for his calm demeanor, peaceful nature, and strong, quiet resolve. He was a loving figure within his family and larger community. His life was an embodiment of kindness and generosity. He was a deacon at New Sardis Baptist Church in Memphis, TN where his faith and fellowship were deeply woven into his daily life.

Al was predeceased by his parents Albert Thomas and Doretha Thomas, sister, Mildred Hunlen, and Brothers Joseph Thomas and Milton Thomas. He is survived by his wife Earline, his son Robert Holman, son-in-law David Rose Sr., daughter Vicki Rose, daughter-in-law Sandy Holman, daughter Avis Holmes, son-in-law Christopher Holmes, son Charles Gibson, and nine brothers and sisters; Dorothy Nelson, Charles E. Thomas (Ellen Thomas), Annette Sumlin (Robert Sumlin), Jeanette Jackson, Carolyn Wright (Leon Wright), Jestine Mosby, Daisy Emanuel, Priscilla Oredugba, Jeffery C. Thomas, and a host of nieces and nephews. The joy of his life were his grandchildren; Daniel Rose, David Rose II, Dexter Holman, Tiffani Walker (Byron Walker, II), Whitney Harris (Antwan Harris), Tia Rose, Destiny Holman, Lori Botsford (Justin Botsford), Ariel Andrews, Lenox Holmes, Langston Holmes, Yasmine Gibson, Jathan Gibson and great-grandchildren Madison Mulero, Savannah Mulero, Oliver Mulero, Trinity Walker, Dallas Harris, Brooklyn Harris, and Javon Harris. Each of them has their own special memories of Papa Al, who gently guided them with his wisdom and love.

While we mourn the loss of Al, we are comforted by the rich memories of his life. He may have departed from this world, but his spirit and influence remain indelibly imprinted in our hearts and minds. We honor his life and legacy and find solace in knowing he is at peace.

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