Col John Edward Thomas

The family of Col. John Edward Thomas, age 64, of Unaka, NC is sad to announce he passed away peacefully in his sleep.

John is survived by his Canadian wife of 23 years Julia, his children John Edward II, Daniel (Jacqui) & Amanda (Shawn); Grandchildren Pearl, Isabella, Cody & Emma; and a Great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents Van E. & Roseda Thomas, brother Van "Skip" Thomas (Zena) and Grandson Jax.

Born prematurely in Murphy, NC John was raised in Corbin, KY where early on he worked on the Rescue Squad with his dad, then later running the Ambulance Service.

Joining the Navy he trained as a Corpsman and was stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune where he was in training to be a Physician Assistant.

After leaving the service he was Collectibles dealer, became a very knowledgeable and fun Auctioneer with the honorary designation of Colonel, and did Signs & Graphics as The Tag Man.

John will be remembered most for the love of his constant companion Sheltie Buster, and more recently his passion for weather forecasting.

Cremation will be taking place and a memorial service is planned.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John’s memory to the Valley River Humane Society.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.