Johnny Thomas, 72, Elkhart, passed away Thursday, July 14, 2022, at Elkhart General Hospital. Johnny was born on February 1, 1950, in Lilbourn, Missouri to the late Andrew Thomas and Ether (Gamble) Thomas. Johnny was a 1968 graduate of Elkhart High School, where he excelled in sports. He retired from Miles Laboratories (Bayer Health-Care Corporation) with over 30 years of service as a Production Operator. After retiring from Bayer, Johnny furthered his lifelong dream as an entrepreneur.  His purpose was to serve the need of his community.  This he did with his tax business (Thomas Tax Service) and providing obtainable housing within the community.  Johnny's infectious smile, energy, enthusiasm, and love touched people of all walks of life. As an advocate for meeting the needs of the community he served on numerous boards, such as Elkhart City Plan Commission, BZA (Board of Zoning Appeals) and Elkhart Enterprise Zone. Johnny was a lifetime member of the NAACP and a member of the Indiana Black Expo where he served as treasurer of the local and state branch.

He was an avid reader, loved to travel, fish, and always looked forward to family gatherings. He enjoyed all sports, but especially Notre Dame football and basketball.  In his living he took great pride in knowing he did his best in serving others. He will be deeply missed.

Johnny is survived by a stepson, James Coleman; brother Charlie (Debra) Thomas; and his sister Frances O'Hara; also surviving are two special cousins, Kathryn Myrick and Gloria Offord and a host of nieces and nephews.

Services celebrating the life of Mr. Johnny Thomas will be held on Saturday, July 23, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Community Missionary Baptist Church, 228 Chapman Ave. Elkhart. Visitation will begin 1 hour prior to the service. Pastor Clarence Jones will officiate. Johnny will be laid to rest in the Memories Mausoleum at Rice Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Billings Funeral Home, Elkhart. Condolences may be made online at www.billingsfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorials to the American Lung Association, 115 W. Washington Street, Suite 1180S, Indianapolis, IN  46204

Acknowledgement-The family would like to express gratitude to all of the family and friends for the many acts of kindness shown to us during our time of bereavement. A special thank you to the doctors and nurses at Elkhart General Hospital. May God continue to richly bless you all.

American Lung Association
PO Box 756, Osceola WI 54020-0756
Tel: 1-800-586-4872
Web: https://action.lung.org/site/Donation2?df_id=31272&mfc_pref=T&31272.donation=form1