Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
Wilbur Lewis Thomas, better know as “JR”, passed away Tuesday April 7, 8 days shy of his 80th birthday. An original Alaskan character, a resident of some 68 years, JR led a colorful life as a contractor and gold miner. He will be missed by family, friends, and enemies.
He is survived by daughters Renee Mackey and Pilar Chestler; sons Cash Joyce, Howard Joyce, and Mike Herring; and brothers Lenny Thomas and Howard Thomas.
There will be a graveside service at Pioneer Cemetery in Palmer, date to be announced.