Joseph James Thomas III, 48, Tecumseh, MO, beloved son, brother and uncle passed away on October 10, 2010 at his residence, due to complications from diabetes. Joe was born on November 5, 1961 in Trenton, NJ to Shirley and Joseph J. Thomas Jr.

Joe grew up in Ewing (formerly West Trenton), NJ and graduated from Ewing High School in 1980. He always enjoyed fixing machines and making home or automotive repairs. He spent many years working at the popular West Trenton Hardware Store in Ewing, NJ. He also worked in the automotive repairs department of Colonial Cadillac in Trenton, NJ.

In 2004, Joe moved to Tecumseh, MO to help a friend build up and maintain a women's shelter. Joe was a quiet and kind man who came to love the Tecumseh area for its peace, serenity and friendly neighbors. Tecumseh happily became his new home. Throughout his life he was always very fond of dogs and usually was pleased to have 3 to 4 dogs claiming his house as their home.

Joe is survived by a sister and a brother, Barbara Jean Thomas and her husband Joseph G. Hynes of Tarrytown, NY, and Allen Fray Thomas and his wife Robin of Hopewell, NJ. He also is survived by five nieces and nephews, Alexander Fray and Parker Alan Thomas, Lauren Aine, Samantha Brianna and Amanda Claire Hynes.

A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, October 19, 2010 at 7p.m. at the Clear Springs Baptist Church, Tecumseh, MO. Burial will be private. Cremation services are under the care and direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.