Billy Jackson Thames, Jr., 66, of Newton, Mississippi, died Friday at in Newton, Mississippi. He was born Saturday, June 27, 1953 in Union, Mississippi.

Jack attended grade schools in Newton, Philadelphia, and Bogalusa, La.  He graduated from Newton High School, East Central Community College, The University of Mississippi, and Mississippi College of Law School (president of law school student body).  Jack was an active member of Sigma NU Fraternity at Ole Miss and an avid Rebel fan.  He served six years in the National Guard Unit of Newton.  Jack was a Boy Scout in which he was lacking time element in one badge, conservation, from being an Eagle Scout.

He was a volunteer in youth athletic programs in Newton and served as a worker and president of Newton Athletic Booster Club.  He was a member of Newton United Methodist Church.  As an attorney Jack established a private law practice in downtown Newton and practiced there until he was appointed Assistant District Attorney in which he served in that capacity until his retirement in 2017.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 14, 2019 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Newton County Funeral Home- North.  Funeral Services will be held Monday, July 15, 2019 at 10:00 AM at Newton United Methodist Church in which the body will lie in state one hour prior to service time.  Burial will follow in Newton Masonic Cemetery. Rev Gary Howse will officiate. Newton County Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (601) 635-3200

He was preceded in death by his father, Billy Thames, Sr. and sister, Debby Pruitt.

Survivors include his wife, Wanda Thames; mother, Betty Thames, sons:  Amos Thames (Kim), Zachary Thames (Abby), Samuel Thames (Shelby), Benjamin Thames (Victoria); brother, Kirk Thames (Jennifer); grandchildren; Knox Thames and Harper Thames; father-in-law, William Miller; aunts, uncles and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who were a part of his large loving family.

Pallbearers will be Ted Whittle, Jeff Bounds, Joe Bounds, Kevin Bounds, Kermit Thames, Wilkins Thames, Nathan Sinko, Josh Sinko, Bo Bounds, and Van Lucas.