October 6, 2023, 72, Goldsboro —

James Robert Thomas, 72, was freed from the cares of this life on Friday, October 6, 2023. He was born in Wayne County on September 3, 1951, and was the son of the late John Haywood Thomas, Jr. and Sophia Hare Thomas.

James retired from E.I. Dupont where he was a machine operator for more than thirty years. He enjoyed tinkering and a good “fixer-upper” project, especially if it was on his grandfather’s 1973 Chevy Truck. James also enjoyed woodworking having many things that still adorn their home. James loved watching a good NASCAR race on TV, pulling for his favorite driver, Tony Stewart.

James and Charlene made certain their family faithfully served the Lord and attended church together. They were married and worshiped as members of the Tabernacle Pentecostal Holiness Church in Goldsboro. James served as a Royal Ranger commander for many years at the Tabernacle Church. They later began worshiping as members of The First Pentecostal Holiness Church.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a service to celebrate James’ life at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Bill Rose officiating. Interment will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 12, 2023, in Wayne Memorial Park.

James is survived by his wife of 45 years, Charlene Johnson Thomas; son, Jae Thomas and wife, Rae; grandchildren, Rowan Thomas and Clio Thomas; three sisters-in-law and one brother-in-law; and several nieces and nephews he loved very much.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in James’ memory to

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.