Minister & Wife

Johnny Thomas, Sr. was born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he obeyed the Gospel under the leadership and training of Columbus Grimsley and Dr. W.F. Washington during the period from 1968-1976. He attended Broward Community College 1976 through 1977 majoring in Pre-Law. In 1977 he decided to further his education by attending Southwestern Christian College where he received an A.A. degree in Biblical Studies and Church Administration. His wife Carolyn J. Cochran Thomas also received her A.S. degree in Biology and Speech Therapy. Their wedding was held the day before graduation. After, they moved to Oklahoma City where Johnny studied Criminology at Oklahoma Christian College; 1979 through 1980. Johnny later attended Arkansas State University where he majored in Psychology; 1982 through 1983. In 1990 he received his B.A. equivalent degree in Biblical Studies and Church Administration from Memphis School of Preaching. From 1994 through 1996 he received his Techniques of Counseling Certificate from the International Seminary. He anticipates completing his M.A. degree in the future.

Between 2000 and 2008, Johnny received his Provider Florida State Certification and owned his own business, JT SonShine Behavioral Services, Inc., which focused on children and adults with Autism, Down Syndrome and severe behavioral issues. Johnny also worked for the sheriff's department as a 911 operator and served as a Customer Support Service coach for the phone company. In addition, Bro. Thomas has also performed full-time ministry work in Wynn, AK, Memphis, TN, and Orlando, FL, and Assistant Minister of Memphis, TN, Coffman, TX, Stuart, FL. Bro. Thomas has been preaching for over 37 years. Johnny and Carolyn have 5 children and 7 grandchildren. They both love The Lord and his church, and very honored to be at the Blue Hill Church of Christ.