By Susan Hardee Steger
Photos courtesy of Kathryn K. Bynum
March 31, 2020
A quiet street came alive on March 31, to celebrate the 99th birthday of Jim Thomas, a beloved member of our community, a World War II Marine Veteran, and a long time devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church in Fernandina Beach.
The celebration, organized by church members, was an opportunity to wish Jim well while maintaining social distancing during the Coronavirus pandemic. Approximate 75 cars with passengers young and old passed by offering warm and gracious birthday greetings along with shouts of “Semper Fi” and heartfelt “We Love Yous.”
Jim stood next to his daughters Linda, Brenda, and Beth and accepted the greetings with his trademark smile, friendly waves, and occasional salutes. A good time was had by all! We wish Jim the happiest of birthdays.
Editor’s Note: As a parade straggler, I was so pleased when a neighbor of Jim Thomas offered to send me photos she had taken during the parade. Kudos to Kathryn “Kat” Bynum for capturing the moment.
“Kat” moved to our area 3 years ago. She served as a photographer in the Marine Corp for 8 years. You can view more of Kat’s photos by visiting www.saltykat.com
We appreciate Kat’s contributions to the Fernandina Observer.
It was so joyful! I know we were all happy to be a part of this celebration!
Sure wish I could have been there to experience all of this wonderful Birthday Celebration with my Uncle Jim!! Thank you to all of the First Presbyterian Church Members and friends that were a part of this great tribute to our beloved uncle.
Marlene Moody
Wish you could have as well Marlene Walters!
We were just thinking about Mr Thomas the other day and were so happy to find out (via the web) he just celebrated his 99th birthday! He means so much to us and was such a true friend and mentor during our time in Fernandina and at First Presbyterian there!
Happy birthday Mr Jim!
Please give him and his family our best.
Frank and Tammy Kitchens
We were just thinking about Mr Thomas the other day and were so happy to find out (via the web) he just celebrated his 99th birthday! He means so much to us and was such a true friend and mentor during our time in Fernandina and at First Presbyterian there!
Happy birthday Mr Jim!
Please give him and his family our best.
Frank and Tammy Kitchens