Billy J. Thomas, 71, Sheldon, IL

Billy J. “B.J.” Thomas, 71, of Sheldon passed away on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at his home.

Billy was born December 11, 1940 in Fonde, KY, the son of John and Sinda Wilson Thomas.  He married Patsy Leach on April 11, 1959 in Tazewell, TN and she survives.

Other survivors include one daughter, Mitsi (Roger) Morsch of Chandler, AZ; one son, Eddie (Joyce) Thomas of Sheldon; six grandchildren, Beth (Adam) Stephens of Mesa, AZ, Matthew Morsch of New York, NY, Jessica White of Sheldon, Carly White of Woodland, Amanda (Joe) German of Milford and Danny (Kim) Buswell of Houston, TX; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Luther Thomas of Tazewell, TN; one sister, Aileen Johnson of Knoxville, TN; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; two sisters; and one son, Ronald J. Thomas.

Mr. Thomas was of Baptist Faith.  He worked as the Donovan School custodian and for T.P.&W. for years.  Billy enjoyed working in the garage, and buying, selling and trading items.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 12:00 p.m. funeral service on Friday, June 22, 2012 at Knapp Funeral Home in Sheldon. Rev. Larry Schuringa will officiate.  Burial will be in Gaffield Cemetery in Iroquois.

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice or American Cancer Society.

Please sign the online guestbook at knappfuneralhomes.com.