James Allen Thomas

JAMES ALLEN THOMAS was born April 6, 1924 in Nacogdoches, Texas. He was the eldest of two children born to Rev. Otis and Leonia Thomas. By James being a preacher’s child, his walk with God started at a very early age and he was baptized at Harmony Baptist Church in Nacogdoches.

Soon after completing his formal education in Texas, the Thomas family relocated and united with Mt. Zion Baptist Church in San Diego, California. Once arriving in San Diego James worked towards an Associate’s Degree in Business. By 1942, James decided to enlist in the United States Army, where he served during World War II and the Korean War, earning several medals; including World War II Victory medal. After serving his country with pride and honor, he received his Honorable Discharge in 1945.  

Afterwards, James continued his education by obtaining a trade license in Barbering. He then partnered in ownership with Rev. H. L. Pleasant for their first barbershop. He later took on a second job with the City of San Diego as supervisor of the streets division.

James was so devoted to the power of education that he took time to teach himself trigonometry, a requirement to advance his career with the city of San Diego.

James met Elouise Carter and the two were married on November 6, 1948.  To their union five children were born: Balinda, (twins) Da’Borah and Allen, Tyrone and Richard.

James was a diligent provider for his family and was recognized for his hard work and dedication during his thirty-three years of continued service with the City of San Diego as a supervisor.

James’ unwavering commitment to church kept him very active as he was an intricate part at Ark Missionary Baptist Church for fifty years. Deacon Thomas served in a multitude of compacities in the choir, transportation ministry, President of the Usher Board, President of the Southwest District and as a Sunday school teacher.

James and Elouise built a legacy by helping others. They used their property to assist low income seniors to have a nice and quiet place to call home for over sixty years.

While surrounded by his family, the Lord called Deacon James Allen Thomas home to glory on December 29, 2018. He was preceded in death by his wife of seventy years, Elouise; twins: daughter, Daborah and son, Allen; both of his parents and his sister, Ester Lene Pleasant.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his daughter, Balinda; sons, Tyrone (Camilla) and Richard (Cecelia); and a host of grandchildren, great-grand-children, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Allen Thomas, please visit our floral store.