Obituary of James Vernon Thomas

James “Jim” Vernon Thomas, age 78, loving husband to Rona Lynn Thomas, passed away peacefully, Thursday February 3, 2022 at Highlands Regional Medical Center in Sebring Florida. He was born October 30, 1943 in Harlan, KY to James Paul & Emily Ruth (King) Thomas. Jim was Founder and President of Lean Masters Consulting Group, Inc. He worked as a Principal Consultant to Ford Motor Company in the US, South America, Canada, Europe and Australia. He was Plant Manager at Kuhlman Electric in Versailles, KY, worked as Plant Manager for Danaher Tool Group in several US locations and worked at Y12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge Tennessee. Jim was a US Air Force Veteran where he taught electronics. He was a member of Burgin Baptist Church and was Chairman of the Building Committee. He later joined Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Danville, KY with his loving wife. He was Board of Governors member of the Shriners Medical Center in Lexington, KY, serving as Treasurer. He was also a proud member of Oleika Shrine Temple in Lexington KY, donating much of his time to assist children in need. He was a member of Mercer Masonic Lodge #777 F&AM, Wilderness Shrine Club, Royal Springs Club, 39 Club , and the Royal Order of Jesters Court 121. He belonged to the TN & KY JCI Senate International. In Addition, Jim belonged to several chapters of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). Together with his loving wife, he enjoyed traveling & camping and spent many winters in Florida. Jim was an expert pilot & enjoyed flying his airplane for both business and pleasure. Other survivors include: one sister Sula Thomas, one brother Larry (Zynthea) Thomas both of Tennessee and best friends David & Dottie Sims of Burgin. Funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, February 8 at 12 noon with visitation from 10am to 12noon at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Danville, KY. An additional service and celebration of life will be held at Burgin Baptist church Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at 12:15pm. Visitation will be 5 - 7 PM, Tuesday, February 8, 2022, and 10 AM until 12 Noon, Wednesday, at the Burgin Baptist Church. A Masonic Service is scheduled for 12 noon, Wednesday, following visitation. Burial will be Thursday, February 10, 2022 at Woodhaven Memorial Gardens, Claxton, TN. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Burgin Baptist Church Building Fund, PO BOX 266, Burgin, KY 40310.