James (Tiny) H. Thomas, 5, Rt. 3 Box 88, Ellensburg, died Wednesday at his home following an extended illness [February 2, 1977].
He was born in Ellensburg Feb. 1, 1902, a son of the late W. R. and Bessie Cleveland Thomas. During most of his adult life, he farmed on the home ranch in the Nanum and Wilson Creek area. As a young man, he performed in rodeos in Canada, New York, Chicago and the Northwest and later worked for the McWhorter and Coffin Brothers sheep operation. He shod horses for many years for farmers, ranchers and individuals in the valley, including the Wranglerettes girls riding group.
With his brother Howard, he served for a number of years as escort for the Ellensburg Rodeo Royalty Court. He was a member of the First Baptist Church, Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star and Kittitas County Cattlemen’s Association.
He and Edith Ferguson were married in Ellensburg Dec. 22, 1936. Survivors in addition to his wife include, two daughters, Mrs. Kay Powers and Mrs. Sandra Aimone, four grandchildren, one brother, Howard Thomas; all of Ellensburg; and two sisters, Mrs. Margie Davies, of Seattle; and Mrs. Emma Marsh, of San Diego, Calif.
Funeral services will be Saturday at 2 p.m. at Evenson Chapel. The Rev. Bud Johnson will officiate and burial will follow at the IOOF Cemetery, with the Masonic Lodge participating at graveside.
Contributed by: Shelli Steedman