James Patrick Thomas

James Patrick Thomas, of West Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, October 22, 2020, at the age of 48. James was born on June 1, 1972, to Joseph and Shirley (Highland) Thomas in Des Moines, Iowa. He celebrated a full life surrounded by family and close friends that he had maintained since high school. He greeted everyone he knew with a wide, infectious smile and left everyone he had met with a life-long lasting impression. James never passed up a chance to make a stranger feel welcome or to offer up life advice. James had a quick sense of humor and it usually revolved around a movie quote or two, which he had memorized down to the inflection of the actor’s voice. James also enjoyed biking, politics, and playing games; he was the self-proclaimed king of trivia! “I’m the king of useless knowledge” he used to shout. And, he was right. He loved football and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, especially while he lived in Texas for a year. Anyone who ever took a ride in the car with James would remember him belting out the lyrics to every song that played on the radio. He had a deep love for ’80s and ‘90s hip hop and R&B. With just one note, James could name that tune. James is survived by his children, Brandon and Mya Thomas; his twin sister, Jennifer (Chris) Thomas; his brother, Jeff Thomas; and his nephew, Logan (Rose) Bell. Memorial contributions can be directed to his sister, Jennifer. The family held a private service in his honor last Saturday, October 24th. He was loved and will be greatly missed.