James L. B. Thomas, 40, of Granite City, Illinois, born October 23, 1980 in Centreville, Illinois, died Saturday, September 18, 2021 at his residence.

James had worked on barges and in restaurants. He loved cooking and barbecuing like his Dad. He loved joking and laughing like his Mom. He was the life of the party at family gatherings. He had a bright smile, and he'd want his children to know that he loved both of them with his whole heart.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Gloria, nee Barker, Thomas.

Surviving are his children, Kyla Thomas and James Thomas, Jr.; a brother, Richard (Patricia) Simms of Dupo, IL; a sister, Gena "Nikki" Thomas of Savannah, MO; his grandmother, Margaret Hogan of Dupo, IL; two nephews, Richard Simms Jr, and Oliver Donahoo; a niece, Mia Simms; and many aunties, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Condolences may expressed online at braunfh.com.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on Saturday, September 25, 2021, at Braun Colonial Funeral Home, Cahokia, Illinois. A private cremation will follow.