Colton James Thomas

Colton James Thomas of Tullahoma passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at the age of 11.

Colton was born into this world on March 23rd, 2015 and forever changed the lives of so many people. Colton was a kind and loving boy with a heart of gold, and was always trying to do the right thing with his friends and family. He had a sweet soul, an amazing smile, and the most handsome blue eyes you had ever seen. Colton had a love for soccer, and worked hard to be the best he could be for his team. He also learned how to kneeboard at an early age, and spent this summer learning to wakeboard on Tims Ford Lake. The lake was such a wonderful place to watch Colton and his friends swim, jump off the cave entrance into the water, and even do a little exploring.

Colton had also been learning to operate his family’s pontoon boat, and was preparing for his boating permit – there was no doubt he would have passed. Colton had many passions. Sports, Legos, building things with his curious imagination, and playing games with his younger brother, Parker. While he may have been too cool to show it, Colton took a lot of pride in being a big brother, and always looked out for Parker. Colton had an infectious smile, and a sharp-witted sense of humor that lit up a room. He was taken from us far too soon, but he will always be loved, and his family will never forget the wonderful years they had together.

Colton was preceded in death by his Grandpa, Bob Thomas; and numerous great-grandparents, great-aunts, and great-uncles.

He is survived by his loving parents, Mike and Beth Thomas; his little brother, Parker Thomas; grandparents, Darrell and Cathy Wade, Deanna Thomas, and Tony and Teresa Kessel; many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and classmates; and his black cat, Jack.

A visitation to remember Colton will be held on Monday, August 31st from 4:00pm – 7:00pm at Kilgore Funeral Home. For those who wish, in lieu of flowers the family asks that donations in Colton’s memory be made to either the Imagination Library – The Dollywood Foundation c/o Finance Department, 111 E. Main Street, 2nd Floor, Sevierville, TN 37862; or the Tullahoma Soccer Association – P.O. Box 1652, Tullahoma, TN 37388.

Kilgore Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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