A Tribute to a Leader: Remembering the Former PANA President and Advocate for Nurse Anesthetists

Jay G. Thomas, CRNA

With heavy hearts, members reflect on the tremendous loss of Jay Thomas, CRNA, former President of PANA and a true champion of our profession.

Jay was a tireless, unwavering advocate for nurse anesthetists and for PANA. Serving as president in 2012 and remaining on the board in various leadership roles for nearly seven years, he played a pivotal role in shaping the strong, financially sound organization we know today. His leadership style was steady, strategic, and deeply collaborative.

On the advocacy front, Jay was instrumental in moving the profession forward.  He was a mentor to many PANA members, teaching them the art of advocating for CRNA practice both at home in Harrisburg and in Washington D.C. 

Jay Thomas made a mark on this profession, and we are all better for having had him as a leader, mentor, and colleague.

Family and friends are invited from 10 AM to 12 PM on Thursday, June 19th to Hugh B. Hughes & Son, Inc. Funeral Home, 1044 Wyoming Ave., Forty Fort.

Memorial service will be held following visitation hours at 12 PM. Click here to view Jay's full obituary online.