James Herbert Thomas

Herb attended Wingate Junior College and always thought of flying in the United States Navy. He enlisted in the Navy on December 8, 1941. During his military service he went through the Navy and Marines Parachute Jump School in Lakehurst, NJ. Later he requested carrier duty and serviced aboard the US Belleau Wood with Torpedo Squadron 24 and Air Group 30. During his Pacific tour in WWII he participated in 11 major sea and land battles including the first and second battles of the Philippine Sea. Herb was wounded by an enemy pilot on October 30, 1944. He was awarded 11 battle stars, nine decorations, three Presidential Citations and the Purple Heart. He always had a big place in his heart for all Veterans of WWII.

His business career spanned over 37 years with Marathon Oil Company. During his career he travelled throughout the Southeast and never met an oil man he did not respect. He retired on February 1, 1986. After his retirement he was made an honorary member of the NC Oil Jobbers Association. He was a former member of the Executive Board of NC Petroleum Council. Herb was a private pilot and enjoyed flying his friends X Navy Plane throughout NC and SC on weekends.

Herb was an active member of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church since 1962. He was a member of Temple Lodge #676, Scottish Rite, Oasis Shrine Temple and Cedarwood Country Club. He enjoyed giving something back for all the blessings he had received. He was also a volunteer for four years driving for the Red Cross once day each week and worked one day a week with Loaves and Fishes. He gave his best to his family, friends, Country and community.

Herb was preceded in death by his Father Charlie A. Thomas; mother Mary Lee Thomas; Spouse Dale E. Thomas; brother Charles Thomas; sisters Helen Lee Thomas, Alice Wiles, Evelyn Thomas Benton and Iris Jo Mattey. He is survived by his wife, Evelyn B. Thomas; daughter Carolyn T. Harris; granddaughter Lauren Harris.

The family will receive friends on Friday, June 4, 2021 from 1 to 3pm at McEwen Funeral Service, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte. A Graveside Service will follow at Sharon Memorial Park with Sherri Barnes, Pastor of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church officiating.

Memorials may be made to St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, 1901 Archdale Drive, Charlotte, NC 28210.