James Howell Antonio "Sapphire" Thomas of Rockford departed this earthly life December 23, 2021. He was born February 19, 1960 in Itta Bena, MS the son of Willie James and Elzina Thomas. James lived in Rockford most of his life coming from Mississippi as a child. He married the former Anna Vanausdale February 14, 2014. James was last employed as a Violence Interrupter by Cease Fire. He attended Rockford Public Schools.
James leaves to cherish many loving memories, his wife, Anna "Bird": children, Tasha Wheeler, Isaac Wheeler and Antaeus and Antavion Berryhill; parents, Willie James and Elzina Thomas; several sisters and brothers including; Martha Allen, Joseph, Ricky, Jasmine, Gloria, victor, Tyrone, John, Mary Jean Thomas, Isidore, Michael Toy, Bobby, and Dozella Jackson, Mary A. Dismuke, Jessica Davis, Laura Valentine, Patricia Ramos, Patrcia Harrel, Evelyn and William Marshall; ; a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by three brothers, and one sister.
Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 7, 2021 at Washington Park Christian Church 801 Concord Ave. Burial in Cedar Bluff Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.