James Christopher "Chris" Thomas

James Christopher "Chris" Thomas passed away Saturday, February 15, 2025. Chris was born November 12, 1969 in Madisonville, Tennessee to Caroline and Larry Thomas. He graduated from Madisonville High School where he played trumpet in the band and was a member of the debate team. He attended the University of Tennessee, Knoxville's School of Architecture. He met Tim Hanes April 18, 1993 and moved to Orlando, Florida. He completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics from the University of Central Florida and received his Master of Fine Arts degree in Ceramics from the University of Georgia's School of Art. In addition to creating his own art, Chris worked for Barnes & Noble establishing Renaissance Kids to bring children's book to life through storytelling, art projects and interactive activities.

Chris was an adjunct professor of art for the University of Central Florida and cherished his time teaching with Robert Rivers and Dennis Ahearn.

Chris and Tim were married April 18, 2018 and live with Pearl, border collie and Simon their cat. His two favorite hobbies were finding homes for cats that he rescued and going to movies.

He is preceded in death by his father Larry Thomas and maternal grandmother, Edna Turner both of Madisonville, TN.

He is survived by husband, Tim Hanes; Pearl, border collie; cats Simon and Buster (his latest rescue) in Orlando, FL. Mother, Caroline Thomas of Madisonville, TN; brother, Chad (Jill) Thomas; Pawley's Island, SC; sister-in-law, Mona Nims, Rolesville, NC. Nieces and Nephews include Amand (Brian) Nims, Rolesville, NC; Brady Thomas, Greensboro, NC; Zach, Colby and Lucy May, Zoe, Malachi, Lyza and Caleb. Chris was a member of the Episcopal, Church of the Resurrection in Longwood, Fl and a Celebration of Life service will be held Sunday, March 2 at 2:00pm. The address for the church is 251 East Lake Brantley Drive, Longwood, FL 32779.