WINTER HAVEN - James Randolph "JR" Thomas, 82, of Winter Haven, FL passed away on November 10, 2008 at his residence due to complications of Parkinson’s disease.

JR was the owner of Winter Haven TV for over 20 years and he was retired from Polk County School Board in 2002. He was a veteran of the United States Navy serving during WW II as a radioman. His favorite pastime was bass fishing.

JR is survived by his wife, Betty J. Thomas; children, Christy Rogers of Snellville, GA, Randy Thomas of Lakeland, FL, Marilyn Board of Orlando, FL, Pati Sue Thomas of Winter Haven, FL; step children, Samuel Anderson of Crystal River, FL, Robert Anderson of Winder, GA, Linda Lou Hall of Lecanto, FL; 17 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 22, 2008 at 12:30 pm at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, Winter Haven, FL. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice 105 Arneson Ave., Auburndale, FL 33823. Condolences may be sent via www.oakridgefuneralcare.com