James E. Thorns, 86 of Hays, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, September 8, 2020, at Hays Medical Center.
James was born May 20, 1934, in Big Springs, Texas, to the Reverend John and Margaret Thorns.
His family has lived in Hays twice, the first time was from 1944 to 1952 when his father was minister at the Presbyterian Church. They returned to Hays when Reverend Thorns retired from the ministry in 1970. James served as a faithful deacon all of his life.
Like the other members of his family, he had an eye for color which manifested itself in the development of new registered iris colors.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother; John Thorns, and a niece; Jennifer Thorns.
James is survived by his sister Margaret Schmidt of Hays, nieces, Karen Thorns and Margaret Anne Becker and husband Vernon all of Hays; nephews, John Alan Lawver and wife Brenda of Sioux City, Iowa, David Lawver and wife Tracy of Basehor, Kansas and Steve Lawver and wife Chevelle of Carl Junction, Missouri.
Due to the ongoing Covid -19 situation, there will only be graveside services in the Sylvan Grove Township Cemetery in Sylvan Grove, Kansas. Services will be 2 PM on Saturday, September 12, 2020, with Rev. Christine Wagner officiating.
Because of James’ fondness for cats, the family suggests a donation to the Humane Society of the High Plains, 2050 E Highway 40, Hays, KS.
Arrangements in care of Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601.
Condolences may be left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or by email at [email protected]