Thomas Earl James

Thomas Earl James passed away on October 15, 2026, in Herington, Kansas. He was born on December 24, 1937, in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Thomas lived a life marked by hard work, service, and pride in the things he loved most. He earned his GED in 1953 and later completed one year of college while in the military. He served in the Army for more than 16 years, and he remained deeply proud of his military service throughout his life. After his years in the service, he worked as a carpenter in construction, building a life through steady work and skill with his hands.

He was known as a man who loved the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and spending time outside brought him great joy. He was also an accomplished trap shooter and won the Western Zone Division Champion of Trap Shooting in 2008. His military pride, strong work ethic, and love of the outdoors were lasting parts of who he was.

Thomas will be deeply missed by his family. He is survived by his daughter, Elaine Jones, and his son, Thomas (Myra) James. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Tequila (Dan) Cronk, Jeffery (Jennifer) Jones, Sara (Henry) Epp, Rebecca (David) Longnecker, Ryan Edison, Thomas Scott James, Heather James, Matthew James, and Haley James. His memory will also be carried forward by his great-grandchildren, Casanova, Damon, Lily, Nevaeh, Jasimine, and Winter. He is also survived by his brothers, Charles James and Joe James. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Martha, daughter, Tonya, and by his great-grandchildren, Loreali and Daniel.

A graveside service will be held on October 30, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Kansas Veterans Cemetery at Ft. Riley, 5181 Wildcat Creek Rd, Manhattan, Kansas 66503.

Thomas Earl James will be remembered for his service to his country, the work of his hands, and the love he held for his family and the outdoors. His life leaves behind many memories that will be cherished by those who knew and loved him.