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Pine High School is delighted to announce that Mr. James Troy Thomas, a distinguished figure in the community, has been selected as the Grand Marshal for the 2023 Pine High School Homecoming Parade. With deep roots in Washington Parish, Mr. J.T. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to service that has left an everlasting mark on the community.

A devoted husband to Elisa Sheridan Thomas for 45 years, Mr. J.T. and his wife have a cherished daughter, Ashlee Thomas and special love one, Brianna Creel.  He is an active member of Acy’s Creek Baptist Church and finds joy in pursuits such as softball, hunting, fishing, and farming.

Mr. J.T.‘s educational journey is a testament to his dedication. He was part of the last graduating class of Thomas High School in 1974. He pursued higher education at Southeastern Louisiana University from 1974 to 1976 and proudly earned his bachelor’s degree from LSU in 1978. In 2010, he continued his academic pursuits by obtaining a Master’s degree in Administration and Supervision from U.S.M.

During his remarkable 42-year teaching career, Mr. J.T. Thomas imparted knowledge and wisdom to countless students. He began at Franklinton High School before teaching Agriscience at Mt. Hermon for 23 years. Subsequently, he dedicated nine years to teaching at Pine High School and continued to inspire students at Bowling Green, South Pike, and Poplarville.

Beyond the classroom, Mr. J.T. was a dedicated coach. He coached basketball for 12 years, contributed two years to football coaching, and notably, spent an impressive 31 years shaping young athletes in baseball. He played a pivotal role in the development of Pine High School’s baseball program, actively participating in the construction of the baseball field, dugout, and even the softball field and its facilities. His contributions extended to the football field, where he assisted in electrical wiring and helped to install the sprinkler system for the Raider football field.

Residents of the Pine community will have the opportunity to connect with Mr. J.T. at the soon-to-be-open Pine Hardware store, where he is currently employed. Pine High School extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. J.T. for his unwavering dedication and service to the school and the broader community.

The community is invited to join in the festivities, with a parade and community pep rally scheduled for September 28, 2022, at 5:30 PM. Mr. J.T. Thomas will also be honored before kickoff at 6:45 PM on September 29, 2023, at Pine High School’s homecoming game.