John C. Thomas, of Derby, Kan., died at his daughter's residence, Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2013. He was born in Lima, Ohio on June 6, 1949, to John H. and Leta Arlene (Hoffman) Thomas. 

He was a graduate of Bluffton High School. He had served for 20 years in the U.S. Air Force and retired in 1987. He was a member of the Derby VFW, Mulvane American Legion, was a past Kansas State Commander for the American Legion, and a member of the Spencer Moose. 

He is survived by his two daughters, Casey (Tim) Lester and Christy (Jason) Beuerline both of Freedom; a son, John Thomas of Champaign, Ill.; a sister Betty (Lynn) Basinger of Bluffton; and five grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary (Hiefner) Thomas; his parents; and a brother, Richard Thomas.

A funeral service was Jan. 11, 2014, at Smith Mortuary in Derby, Kan. Burial was at El Paso Cemetery with military rites performed by the Derby American Legion and VFW. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas American Legion or the Derby VFW post #408.

Online condolences may be made at www.westparrishpedigo.com.