Joseph Rochelle Thomas (1866-1938) was born in Birmingham and established his antique dealing business c.1900. He died on 10th September 1938 at his home at 18 Ilchester Place, London W14 (probate at £24,761. 1s. 9d.) to his sons Alfred William and Victor Joseph, who continued the business.
J. Rochelle Thomas was one of the founding members of the BADA in 1918 and the first president of the BADA in 1918.