Jasper Jay' Thomas was born September 4, 1912 in Wesley, Arkansas to his parents, Daniel Monroe and Cynthia Ann (Fritz) Thomas. He grew up and spent his early years in Arkansas before serving his country in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper. On August 21, 1943, he was united in marriage to Pauline Steeley in Stilwell, Oklahoma, a union lasting 67 years. He and Pauline made their home in Hulbert, Oklahoma. Jay worked for many years as a machinist for McDonnell-Douglas Aircraft. He was a long-time member of the Church of Christ in Wagoner. Jay was an outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening. However, his is greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He passed away Sunday, February 27, 2011 at the Veteran's Center in Claremore, OK. Jay was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Lester, Euell, Lloyd and Warren and a sister, Anna Jamison. He is survived by his wife, Pauline (Steeley) Thomas of the home; two sons, Ralph S. Thomas and his wife, Diana and Jim D. Thomas all of Hulbert; a daughter, Shirley A. Bowlin of Tahlequah; five grandchildren, Angela McCawley, Tamara and Vanessa Strickland and Jordan and Joshua Bowlin; eight great-grandchildren, Preston, Emily, Autumn, Abigail, Konner, Logan, Summer and Barry; numerous nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.