John Harding Thomas Jr. (J.T.) passed away on Sunday, December 18, 2022, at the age of 71. He was born on August 9, 1951 and the firstborn to the family of John and Helen Thomas Sr.. J.T. became a 1969 graduate of Brinkley High School and chose to continue his studies at the University of Arkansas.

On December 30, 1971 he married the love of his life Betty Jane Short (Janie) in Slidell, LA. They chose to make their home in Moro and over the next fifty one years shared in the joys and memories of two children, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

J.T. began his working career at the local Sterling Store owned by his father, John Sr. He went on to secure a position in Banking for a few years before accepting a position on the Short Farm where he remained for 12 1/2 years. J.T. spent some time working at 3 Rivers Helicopters, helping to fight fires in the Everglades and helped in starting the East Arkansas Wilderness Institute that helps troubled teens. J.T was also a member of the National Guard with his best friend Don Griner.

J.T. was raised in the Christian faith and attended times of worship during his youth at the Brinkley First Baptist Church and later the Brinkley Methodist Church.
Like most young men growing up in the Southern Delta J.T. had a love of the outdoors, and the sport of hunting. J.T. had a love of family that exceeded all and times spent with his family brought him the greatest joy of all.

J.T. was preceded in death by his parents, John and Helen Thomas Sr. , and son-in-law, Brian Cosby.

Survivors include his wife Janie Thomas, children, John S. Thomas (April) of Maumelle, Somer Thomas Cosby of Wheatley, brother, David Thomas (Tammy),sister, Debbie Johnson, grandchildren, Mikael Tullos, Zoe Tullos, Brian Cosby, Jasmin Thomas Pielemeier, Ava Thomas and two great grandchildren Elisabeth and Rudi Pielemeier. Along with best friend Don Griner.

Visitation will be on Wednesday at 1:00P.M. with services following at 2:00P.M. at the Presbyterian Church in Brinkley. Burial will follow at Johnson Cemetery in Wheatley.