Renowned attorney and instrumental figure in Chicago's political landscape, James A. Thomas, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2023, in Chicago, Illinois.

Born January 28, 1942, in Byhalia, Mississippi, Attorney Thomas was a wellspring of integrity, strength, and inspiration to all who were fortunate to know him. Attorney Thomas obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Roosevelt University, he subsequently graduated Cum Laude with a Juris Doctorate from DePaul University College of Law, Chicago. Attorney Thomas embarked on his legal career at Sears Roebuck & Co, where he transitioned from a management trainee to a staff attorney, demonstrating his unyielding dedication to the legal profession. In 1978, his commitment to public service led him to serve as a Commissioner for the Illinois Industrial Commission. He subsequently joined the law firm of Cornfield and Feldman in 1982, focusing on the area of Workers' Compensation law. His unrelenting pursuit of justice culminated in his appointment as General Counsel of the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) during the Harold Washington administration, a position that further amplified his impact on the community.

In the 1983 Chicago mayoral election, Attorney Thomas played a pivotal role in shaping the city's political history. He was instrumental in preserving three predominantly Black voting districts, safeguarding the representation of 40% of the city's Black voters. His efforts, combined with leading a massive voter registration drive, helped create a tidal wave of support that led to the election of Harold Washington, Chicago's first Black mayor. As a member of the Executive Committee for the Lawyers' Committee for Harold Washington for mayor, Attorney Thomas’ tireless efforts during the campaign included overseeing a majority of election legal matters, demonstrating his passion for justice and social equality.

After leaving the CHA, Attorney Thomas joined the law firm of James D. Montgomery & Associates, LTD, in 1988, and in 1989, he ventured out to establish his own firm, James A. Thomas, Ltd. His illustrious legal career was recognized with numerous awards, including the National Bar Association Corporate Award for Affirmative Action in corporate/legal work, the Cook County Bar Association Public Service Award, and the IVI IPO Legal Eagle Award. Attorney Thomas’ legacy extended beyond his professional endeavors and deeply influenced the heart of the community. He was a respected member of the Cook County Bar Association, the Federal Trial Bar of the District Court for Northern Illinois, The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Association, and the Association of Trial Lawyers of America. He later served as a Hearing Officer for the Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago.

Attorney Thomas will be fondly remembered for his unwavering dedication to the law, his indomitable commitment to public service, and his invaluable contributions to the community. He is survived by his wife, his five children, four grandchildren, and a host of family, friends, and colleagues whose lives have been touched by his extraordinary life.

Condolences and expressions to the family may be sent to jathomasfamily7@gmail.com.