Jack R. Thomas

Jack R. Thomas, age 88, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 1, 2015 with his loving family by his side.

Jack was born on September 1, 1926 in Terre Haute, IN. He is a United States Army WWII Veteran who proudly served in the Philippines. Jack married the love of his life, Bette D. Muenzing on July 25, 1953 who he met dancing at the YMCA. His love of Country Music had him playing his guitar and singing all over the Joliet area for the last 60 years, the last 40 years leading his band the Melody Drifters. Jack was also a member of Trinity United Methodist Church for over 50 years, pack leader of the Cub Scouts, past member of the Joliet Mud Turtles and member of the Northern Illinois Bluegrass Association. "Poppie" was a special man who would take care of many children and treated them as his own; he had a heart of gold and will be sorely missed.

Jack is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Bette Thomas; children, Randy (Nancy) Thomas, Robin Nelson, and Shawn Thomas; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sisters, Shirley Mason of Morris, IL, Carolyn Willan of Indianapolis, IN, Marjorie Hyde, and Charlotte Smith of Terre Haute, IN; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Preceded in death by his parents, Reuben and Mabel Thomas; and one grandson, Jason Jack Thomas.

The family would like to offer a special thank you to Jack's niece, Barbara Bertino and close family friend, John Robinette for all of their help.

Per Jack's wishes cremation rites have been accorded.

Saturday, March 14, 2015
11:00 AM

Trinity United Methodist Church
301 Fairbanks Avenue
Joliet, IL 60432

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jack's name to the family would be appreciated. Inurnment will be held privately at a later date at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.