James Arond-Thomas

James Arond-Thomas, M.D., of Hopkinton, a distinguished physician-researcher and dedicated medical practitioner, passed away Sept. 10, 2024, at age 80. Born in Caroline County, Virginia, he was the son of the late Jeannette (Anderson) and Otto M. Thomas.

James held a doctorate in medicine and a master’s in pharmacology, underscoring his deep commitment to advancing medical knowledge and patient care. As a medical student at OSU, he won the Borden Award for outstanding research. In his lifelong pursuit of excellence and innovation, during his medical training, he worked with Nobel Prize winner Dr. Von Euler for a summer, and was a research associate in clinical science at the National Institute of Mental Health for three years. An attending physician at Harper-Grace Hospitals from 1976-94, he founded and directed the Center for Contemporary Medicine in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he was known for his innovations in behavioral oncology. Unwavering in his dedication to his patients and highly respected by colleagues, Dr. Arond-Thomas leaves behind a legacy of true patient-centered medicine and compassion.

James is survived by his wife of 28 years, Manya Arond-Thomas, and his siblings, Lois Blackshear, Mildred Chaney, Carolyn and Jeannette Thomas, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by sister Rose Watson and brother Otto Thomas.

Private family arrangements are being held and are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.

Obituaries are submissions, typically from funeral homes, that are not subject to the same level of editorial oversight as the rest of the Hopkinton Independent. Obituaries may be edited for grammatical and factual mistakes and clarifications and shortened for space considerations.