Sam James "Jim" Thomas' Obituary
Sam James “Jim” Thomas, 71, of Hallsville, Texas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 27, 2025, surrounded by family and friends.
Jim, as he was affectionately known, was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey in life was marked by love, compassion, and an infectious smile. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives whom he touched along the way. He was a beloved husband, devoted father, and cherished grandfather.
Jim was born October 19, 1953, in Longview, Texas, to Sam George Thomas and Marion Brown Thomas of Longview. He graduated from Longview High School in 1972 and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1976. Recruited right out of college, Jim began his 44+ year career in the oil and gas industry, which took him to Midland, Texas; Tyler, Texas; Corpus Christi, Texas; Farmington, New Mexico; and finally, back to his hometown of Longview working for Cudd Energy Services in Kilgore, Texas. He was highly respected for his knowledge and expertise in hydraulic fracturing and well stimulation. After retirement, he enjoyed gathering with his high school buddies for their annual Caddo Lake retreat.
Throughout his twenty years as a devoted member of the First United Methodist Church of Hallsville, Jim served as a member of the Trustees Committee, helped cook Wednesday night meals, served behind the coffee bar on Sundays, attended church camp with the youth and participated in building wheelchair ramps for the community with the Texas Ramp Project.
Jim is proceeded in death by his parents, Sam and Marion Thomas. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca “Becky” Thomas of Hallsville; daughters, Whitney Merrill (Jason) of Houston; Aubrey Skinner (Kevin) of Whitehouse; and son Jared Pirkle (Chloe) of Round Rock; his seven grandchildren Lydia, Owen, and Wyatt Skinner; London, Lilly, Lincoln, and Lawson Merrill; mother-in-law Ellen Stokes of Carthage; brother-in-law Doug Stokes of Carthage; sister Margaret Miller (Charles) of Longview; and several cousins.
The greatest joy in Jim’s life was spending time with his family. He spent many hours at soccer, basketball, and baseball games for his children during their school years. He enjoyed creating memories on family vacations to the beach, skiing, river floats, and grilling family dinners. He loved spending time with his grandchildren by the pool, taking them on Kubota and tractor rides, and roasting smores.
Jim had the most giving, selfless, and energetic personality you could ever know. He always had a huge smile on his face with a perfectly groomed mustache and a big cup of never-ending coffee. He had an impact on so many lives and will be remembered for his bright smile, stories, memories, and advice. His light will forever shine brightly in our hearts.
A service to honor his life will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Hallsville on Monday, April 7, 2025, with visitation beginning at 10:00 am followed by the service at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to The Gold Network of East Texas (goldnetworkoet.com) to help support families affected by childhood cancer.
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