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Although they are both from different parts of Alabama, Jay and Valerie Thomas can attest that Helena is the perfect place to raise a family.

Originally a Moody native, Jay graduated from Jacksonville State University, while Valerie is from Muscle Shores and attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham. In 2002, the couple met at the birthday party of a mutual friend and the rest is history.

Jay moved to Helena in 2001 and Valeria joined him in 2004. Since then, the couple welcomed the addition of their rescue dog, Elsie, and their son, Jackson, who is currently 19 years old and is a sophomore at the University of Kentucky.

Growing up, Jackson attended Helena schools and was deeply involved in youth sports. While their son played, Jay and Valerie volunteered their time and helped out in any way they could.

Even after Jackson graduated from Helena High School in 2023, the couple has continued to participate in Helena sports.

“Once our son graduated and was no longer involved with sports, I missed it so much that I started umpiring baseball and softball in Helena,” Jay said.

In the more than 20 years that they have lived in Helena, the couple has seen Helena grow and change into the vibrant community that they love.

“We have watched the city explode in growth in a good way; the city has still kept the small town feel,” Jay said. “We have enjoyed attending the Old Town Live concert series, the Fourth of July celebration and all the other events the city offers. We are proud to call the city of Helena home.”

Currently, Jay works for an accounting firm in Hoover, while Valerie is a nurse at Grandview Medical Center. When they’re not working, the Thomas family enjoys playing golf, working in the yard and traveling. During the summer, they can be found enjoying the amenities at Gobblers Knob, a swim club in Helena.