John Lennox Thomas

John Lennox Thomas, 86, of Columbia, SC, went home to be with Jesus on January 1, 2026, at Lexington Medical Center. Born on August 31,1939, in Marion, SC the son of Tyson Thomas and Janie Page Thomas. John married his sweetheart of 57 years, Linda Ryals Thomas on July 6,1968, in Savannah, GA. He moved to Charleston, SC where he put his carpentry talents to good use by founding the J L T Contracting Company. Later he transitioned into real estate becoming a broker and owner of The Lennox Co. Real Estate. John was highly respected for his integrity in the industry and invested in numerous properties throughout his career. He was a Christian and long-standing member of Columbia Crossroads Church. 

He was a shag-dancing-guitar-picking-man. John embraced life with enthusiasm. He had a passion for cultivating plants and a great respect and appreciation for nature. Socially outgoing and a natural performer he enjoyed a good party especially if there was a microphone and an opportunity to tell a story. His favorite parties were family reunions where he relished spending time with the ones he fiercely loved over his favorite meal of chicken bog. The quote by Walter Hagen “You’re only here for a short visit. Don’t hurry, don’t worry and be sure to smell the flowers along the way” embodied his unhurried lifestyle. He will be fondly remembered for his infectious sense of humor and kind-hearted nature and most importantly for his desire to share the gospel with the ones he loved. John lived a life well spent leaving a legacy in the countless lives he touched. 

Remaining to cherish John’s memory are his loving and devoted wife, Linda Thomas; daughters, Angela Herskind and Melissa Addis (Scott); grandchildren, John Mark, Sam, Parker (Morgan), Drew (Georgia), Ethan (Mollie), Margot and Olivia (Ben); great grandchild, Oliver; brothers, Nelson Thomas, Billy Thomas (Peaches); sister, Frances Bone and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tyson and Janie Thomas; brothers, Derrick, Jack, Gene; sister, Judy.

Celebration of Life Services will be held January 11, 2026, at 3:00 at Columbia Crossroads Church 2723 Ashland Rd, Columbia, SC 29210 with Jeff Shipman officiating. There will be a private burial. Memorial donations in John’s memory may be directed to Columbia Crossroads Church (St. Andrews Campus) or Still Hopes Residents’ Fund.

 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever should believe in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16