James Clanton Thomas

November 20,1933 – March 25,2025

James Clanton Thomas, 91, of Myrtle Beach, SC, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born in Birmingham, Alabama to Claude Thomas and Loretta Wiggins, Jim lived a full and dedicated life marked by service, love, and family.

A proud graduate of St. Paul Academy in Washington, D.C., Class of 1951, Jim enlisted in the United States Navy in October of that same year. He served his country honorably for 20 years, retiring as a veteran with deep pride in his service and his nation.

Following his military career, Jim settled in Maurertown, Virginia, where he founded Jim's Appliance Service. For 26 years, he faithfully served Shenandoah County, building a reputation for honesty, hard work, and neighborly care until his retirement in 1999. In 2015, he moved to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina to enjoy his later years.

Jim was widowed twice in his life, having been married for 50 years to his first wife, Margery, and 10 years to his second wife, Doris. He also endured the heartbreaking loss of two children, Michael Lee Thomas and Patricia Marie Thomas. He is survived by his loving wife of the last five years, Carrol Kerrigan; his daughter, Cynthia Anne Mason of Conway, SC; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Mr. Thomas was a true patriot, a devoted father and grandfather, and a man who held deep love for his family and his country. His legacy of service, strength, and resilience lives on in the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed.

In accordance with his wishes, no services are scheduled at this time. Mr. Thomas will be interred at a later date in Maurertown, Virginia, with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T) or the Wounded Warrior Project in honor of his lifelong dedication to his fellow service members and veterans.

Mr. Thomas is entrusted to Kelvin F. Lewis, the funeral director, and the Lewis Crematory & Funeral Home staff of Myrtle Beach, SC. (843) 294-0011  

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