Jimmy Lee Thrash

Jimmy Lee Thrash, 72, passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2020, at Mississippi Baptist Medical
Center in Jackson, Mississippi. He was born on December 28, 1947, in Jackson, Mississippi, to GJ and
Elsie (McKay) Thrash.
Jimmy was a lifelong resident of Rankin County. He graduated from Pisgah High School and Mississippi
State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree. After graduating, he returned back
home to carry on his family legacy of operating Thrash Farms. As a third generation farmer, Jimmy
farmed both cotton and soybeans and was looking forward to planting a new crop of soybeans and corn
in the spring. In addition to his love of farming, Jimmy found another love—flying. After earning his
private pilot’s license, he went on to earn his instrument, commercial, multi-engine, turbine, tail wheel,
and instructor ratings. He often said that he “flew everything from puddle jumpers to jets” and that “if it
had wings, he could fly it.” Jimmy enjoyed sharing his passion of farming and flying with others, but
especially with his grandson, John Elliott Jolley. He was especially proud of the day that John Elliott
received his own private pilot’s license.
One of Jimmy’s most important achievements was marrying the former Helen Fleming. Helen was the
picture of a Proverbs 31 woman, devoting her life to being Jimmy’s constant helpmate. Together, Jimmy
and Helen traveled most of the United States in their RV and were always looking forward to their next
adventure. Helen lovingly cared for Jimmy until he drew his last breath. They were married for almost 54
years.
Jimmy was proud of his children and grandchildren, passing on his determination and work ethic to
them all. He taught integrity and the value of hard work to his daughters, Cheryl and Chandy. They
would not be the women they are today without his mighty influence. He was never too busy to engage
with his grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Pops.” From teaching Laura Alice and Lydia to drive and
making Lydia’s “Sweet Creations by Lydia” business cards to playing card games with Lucy, he enjoyed
his grandchildren’s visits. When his only great grandson and namesake, Elliott Lee Jolley, was born in
September of 2019, “Pops” would tell everyone to “put that boy on the floor so I can see him play.”
Jimmy was of the Baptist faith and enjoyed attending Pinelake Church. On Sunday mornings when he
was unable to attend church in person, Helen would cook breakfast for him and they would watch the
livestream services.
Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, GJ and Elsie Thrash, and his sister, Barbara. He is survived
by his spouse, Helen, of Pelahatchie; his daughters Cheryl Thrash of Pelahatchie and Chandy Lee (Chris)
of Brandon; his grandchildren, John Elliott Jolley (Allayna), Laura Alice Lee, Lydia Lee, and Lucy Lee; and
his great grandson Elliott Jolley.
The family will receive visitors on Friday, February 14, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Wolf Funeral Services in
Morton, Mississippi. The funeral will be held in the Wolf chapel on Saturday, February 15, at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to East Rankin Academy, P.O. Box
509, Pelahatchie, Mississippi 39145.