James Thomas, 73, of Troy, Ala., and a native of Logan County, died Monday, June 18, 2012, at Troy Regional Medical Center.

He joined the US Army Special Forces in 1956 and served until 2009 when he retired from the service.

He currently served as the State Department Commander for Alabama and was the past commander for Chapter 2205 in Montgomery, Ala., for 2 years for the Military Order of Purple Heart. He is a member of the Army Aviation Association of America, Association of United States Army, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association, Military Order of Purple Heart, Scottish Rights of Free Masonry, 33rd Degree Mason, a Shriner and Distinguished Flying Cross Life member.

A memorial service was held on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Green Hills Funeral Home, in Troy, Ala.

The family has scheduled a local memorial service on Saturday, June 23, 2012, at 2 p.m. at Chandlers Chapel United Methodist Church.

In addition to his wife of 19 years, Laura (Janice) Wise Thomas, local survivors include his mother Buelah M. Epley, of Russellville , two brothers, Lewis Marion Thomas and wife Sue, Anthony Wayne Thomas and wife Peggy Sue, all of Auburn; three sisters, Patricia Faye Powell and husband Ray of Tennessee, Julia Mae Gipson of Auburn, Peggy Ann Robinson and husband Roger of Russellville. He was preceded in death by one brother, Alva Wendell Thomas. In addition, he’s survived by two daughters, one son, one stepson, his first wife of 29 years, Bonnie, 10 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren.

Family and friends can sign the online guest book at www.greenhillsfuneralhome.net.