Jimmy David Thomas was born April 9, 1952 in Wasco, CA to Pat and Ruby Thomas. He was raised in Shafter, attending all local schools. He wrestled for Shafter High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Brenda Hayes in 1969 at the age of 17. Their young love encouraged them to go all the way to St. George, Utah in order to have their union be declared official. Jimmy and Brenda were married for 29 years. Jimmy helped with the family business, Arrow Furniture and ran the business when it moved to Main Street and was renamed Family Furniture. He also sold cars at Holiday Ford and Richland Chevrolet in Shafter. His success as a businessman in sales came from his personality and good nature. He could always put a smile on your face with his memorable jokes. He was the kind of man who would help anyone in need, even willing to give the shirt off his back. He was also a great dancer; there wasn't a better 2-stepper around. Jimmy was a great father and grandfather. His only daughter, Ashley had a special place in his heart, she could do no wrong. He coached her teeball and softball teams as a youth. His paternal aptitude was also apparent in his adoration of his 4 grandchildren; Aidan, Payton, Presley and Triston. Jimmy is preceeded in death by his parents, C.J. "Pat" Thomas and Ruby Thomas-Floyd. He is survived by his son, Brian Thomas; son, Jeremy Thomas; daughter, Ashley McIrvin; ex-wife, Brenda Thomas; brother and sister-in-law, Johnny and Carrie Thomas; niece, Patti Greenwood; and grandchildren, Aiden Thomas, Payton, Presley, and Triston McIrvin; and a host of nieces, nephews, family members and friends. A memorial service for Jimmy will be held at St. Mark's Anglican Church (295 Beech Avenue, Shafter) on Thursday, July 26, 2012 at 10am.