Philip Newman Thomas Jr.

Philip Newman Thomas, Jr. left this earthly life to live forever with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 17, 2023. He was 93 and a resident at Bedford Care Center in Mendenhall, MS. Philip was born on July 16, 1929 in Jackson, MS, the son of Philip N. Thomas, Sr. and Paula Johnson Thomas.

After graduating from Clinton High School, he enlisted in the Navy and served for four years as an aircraft engine mechanic and flight engineer stationed in Okinawa, Japan. After returning home, he joined his father and worked alongside him in the grocery business. There he met his beloved wife, Norma Jean Britt. He later opened Thomas Variety Store. During his lifetime, he operated three other retail businesses in Brookhaven and Clinton. After retiring, he and his wife moved to Destin, FL, returning to Jackson after she passed away.

Philip loved the outdoors, fishing and boating, visiting with friends at the Goshen Springs Campground and the company of his dear friend, Mary Virginia Durr.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife of 45 years. He is survived by sons, Mark P. Thomas (Ann) of Brandon, MS, David B. Thomas of Destin, FL; daughter, Laurie Thomas Wallace of Aptos, CA; two sisters, Muriel Thomas Root (Gene), Lynn Thomas Saab (Peter John); four grandchildren, Teresa Thomas Walker (Jacob), John Thomas (Breanna), Brooke Wallace and Cal Wallace; two great grandchildren, Elijah Walker and Joshua Walker. He was well loved and will be missed by a host of cousins, nieces and nephews, and longtime friends.

Visitation will be held at Lakewood Funeral home at 6011 Clinton Blvd., on Sunday March 5, from 1:00-3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.