James Charles Thomas, OG&E Lineman and Parkinson's Community Member, Dies

A life of service in Oklahoma

James Charles Thomas, known to many as JC or Tommy, has passed away in Oklahoma City.

According to an obituary published by Legacy.com, the 80-year-old man leaves behind a legacy defined by decades of utility work, military service, and advocacy for the Parkinson’s community.

Thomas was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on July 28, 1946, to JW and Mary Hull Thomas. His family eventually moved to Stillwater, Oklahoma, where he completed high school. Before graduating, he joined the Oklahoma National Guard in 1963, beginning a 12-year tenure that included service with the 95th Army Reserves.

He married Marilyn Bellmon Thomas on September 24, 1965. The couple shared 61 years of marriage before his passing.

Decades on the line

In 1970, Thomas began working for OG&E as a lineman, a role that earned him the nickname “JC.” McNeil’s Funeral Service reported that he developed a deep affinity for the company’s large orange trucks and took great pride in his work during severe weather events.

James Charles Thomas, OG&E Lineman and Parkinson's Community Member, Dies

His primary motivation during storms was ensuring that electricity was restored to residents as quickly and safely as possible for his crew. He concluded his career at OG&E with a 30-year record of zero accidents. Following his retirement from OG&E, he transitioned to a position with Midwest Energy in Kinsley, Kansas.

After retiring from the workforce, JC and Marilyn relocated to Oklahoma City. They moved to be closer to their children and to attend OU football games, a tradition he maintained until Parkinson’s disease prevented him from attending in person.

Resilience through Parkinson’s

Thomas was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2009. Rather than withdrawing, he actively engaged with the community affected by the condition. He remained a regular golfer, playing every clear day possible, and continued to work on his swing at Top Golf even as his mobility changed.

His dedication to others earned him recognition within the medical advocacy community. In 2025, he was honored with the Jim Keating Award for his outstanding service to the Parkinson’s community. He was also an active participant in the Oklahoma Parkinson’s Alliance.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; his son John and wife Mary; his daughter Mendy; and his grandchildren, James, Katie, KJ, Cashtin, and Rowdy. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Carter, Jameson, and Kade, as well as his 101-year-old mother, Mary Thomas, and his brother, Jay Thomas.

A celebration of life is scheduled for Friday, November 13, at 10:30 AM at the McNeil’s Funeral Service Chapel, located at 525 West State Highway 152 in Mustang, OK.

Following the service, a “Beer and Barbecue” lunch will be held at the Laurel Springs Clubhouse at 151 East Plantation Terrace in Mustang. Per the family’s request, guests are encouraged to wear casual dress. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Oklahoma Parkinson’s Alliance.