James Edward Thomas

"Once in a lifetime you find a friend who not only touches your heart but also your soul" James Edward Thomas (Jim to his friends) passed peacefully April 11, 2009 in Community General Hospital. He was born on September 4, 1907 in Uniontown, PA to Amanda Jane (Jackson) Thomas and Charles Broades Thomas. Jim was preceded in death by his wife Isabelle Thomas, both parents, and his only sister, Anna Douglas Griffen. Jim graduated from South Union Township High School, Union, PA, on May 26, 1926 and from Storer College, Harpers Ferry, WV in 1929. He taught school at Stone Hill, Ashburn, VA, after graduation. Jim retired from the New Cumberland Army Depot in 1972. After retirement, he taught arts and crafts at the Senior Citizens' Center, in Harrisburg, PA. Jim was a former member of the Harrisburg Camera Club for amateur photographers, through which he won many awards and the Central Pennsylvania Industrial Photographers Association Award for professional photographers. Jim was also a member of the Harrisburg Radio Club. Jim is survived by his daughter AnnaJane (Thomas) Riley, son-in-law, Ollie Riley, Sr. of Harrisburg, five grandchildren; Ollie Riley, Jr., Phyllis Reid, CherylAnn Innes-Smith, Michael Riley, and Jason Riley; six great grandchildren; two great, great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Services will be held Friday April 17th,2009 at the Kingdom of Jehovah's Witnesses 4331 Rodkey Road Harrisburg (Susquehanna Township). Time of services will be at 7:30 PM. On behalf of the family the Hooper Memorial Home Inc. wishes to thank all of you for your many blessings and prayers.