Jerry Thomas

Jerry Thomas, 80, of Bourbonnais, passed away in his sleep Saturday (March 2, 2019) at Heritage Village in Kankakee after battling multiple sclerosis for 50 years. He was a loving husband, devoted father, and friend to countless others. He was born November 11, 1938 in Hoopeston, IL, the son of Everett and Cecil (Longfellow) Thomas. He graduated from Hoopeston High School and married his high school sweetheart, Judy Stembel in 1957. Jerry served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He worked for Roper, Kankakee School District 111, and Manteno State Hospital. Jerry was an electrician with IBEW Local 176 and retired from the State of Illinois in 1982. He was a member of Eastridge Church of the Nazarene in Kankakee. Surviving are his only son, Brad Thomas of Bourbonnais; two granddaughters, Chaney Thomas (25) of Clearwater, FL and Cassie Thomas (22) of Bourbonnais; one niece, Linda (Thomas) Pearson of De Pere, WI, and a loyal friend, Jim Nordmeyer of Manteno, IL. Preceding him in death are his parents, wife of 56 years, one brother, Richard Thomas. Jerry Thomas will be buried next to the love of his life in a private ceremony at Amity Cemetery in Goodwine, IL. In lieu of flowers any donations may be made to the family’s wishes. Jensen Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Please sign Jerry’s guest book at www.jensenfuneralhome.com