Jay E. Thomas

Jay Thomas, 91, of Galesburg, died at 10:39 a.m. Wednesday, August 12, 2015 at Galesburg Cottage Hospital. Jay was born June 29, 1924 in Graceville, MN the son of Ray and Sadie Jansma Thomas.  He married Helen Leola Simpson on May 3, 1952 in Galesburg.  Jay is survived by his wife, Helen of Galesburg; one son, John of Galesburg; one daughter, Jean L. Howerton of Louisville, KY; one granddaughter, Jennifer; and six great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, Julie Ann Thomas on October 8, 2010; his twin brother, Ray; and three sisters, Arleta Frank, Audrey Gals, and Doris Parks. Jay served in the US Army.  He worked for the Knox County Sheriff’s Department.  He then went to work for the Galesburg Police Department in 1951, first as an ambulance driver, he then became a radio operator and then a patrolman.  He eventually was promoted to sergeant. After retirement, Jay spent 3 years on the Knox County Sheriff’s posse.  He was a longtime member of Unit 19 PB & PA, the Illinois Police Association, and local union #61.  Jay was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church, Galesburg, having served on the board and many different committees.  He was also a member of Ralph M. Noble American Legion Post #285. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday, August 17, 2015 at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Pastor Mary Runge will officiate.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the services at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg.  Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Galesburg.