Born Pembroke Dock, South Wales, July 27, 1865. Son of George Edward and Elizabeth Anne (Jones) Thomas. Came to America in 1870. Educated at Mosely Public School and South Division High School, Chicago. Married Annie Katherine Vance of Chicago, April 16, 1906. One child. Entered banking business as teller with the Commercial Loan and Trust Company, Chicago, 1891, remaining as such until that company was absorbed by the Royal Trust Company. Was an assistant in the Royal Trust Company in 1909. Served with the latter until 1918. Vice-president 1918-1919. Resigned to join newly formed Great Lakes Trust Company.