Joe Thomas, born May 31, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey, was an American jazz/funk flautist and occasional saxophonist. With a career spanning decades, Joe Thomas brought a unique blend of jazz and funk to the forefront, creating a sound that was both soulful and innovative. His music, often characterized by its infectious grooves and virtuosic flute playing, has left an indelible mark on the jazz and funk genres. Joe Thomas passed away on July 26, 2017, in Orange, New Jersey, but his musical legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.