Bennye K. Thomas

Born on June 14, 1936, in Fort Worth, Texas, Bennye was a beacon of talent, love, and resilience. Her family relocated to San Diego in 1945, amidst the turmoil of war in Europe. Her hardworking spirit was evident from a young age as her mother, father, grandmother, and uncles contributed to the war effort as machinists and riveters at Ryan Aeronautical Company.

While her artistic flair shone brightly on the stage, nothing brought her more joy than her family. Her beloved husband, Al S. Thomas (USN Retired SR Chief), stood at the center of her world, and together they built a life filled with love, adventure, and togetherness. Whether performing alongside luminaries such as Dennis Hopper and Raquel Welch at the Old Globe Theatre in Balboa Park, or crafting beauty through crochet and knitting, every moment was enriched by the love of her family.

As a devoted wife and mother, her guiding light was her family. Her four children and seven grandchildren were more than her legacy—they were her life's greatest work of art. Their joy, growth, and accomplishments were her constant source of pride and fulfillment.

She pursued her education at San Diego State University, earning an AA degree and becoming a licensed practical nurse. Her caring nature not only served her patients with compassion but also enveloped her household with warmth and nurturing care.

As a Navy wife, she embarked on incredible journeys, living from coast to coast, experiencing life in Hawaii and the Philippines. Yet, no matter where the world took her, home was where her family was. Her heart was the anchor, providing stability, laughter, and boundless love, even in far-off places.

Her artistic expression extended beyond the stage into her family life, where she painted memories and wove tales of joy through the simple, everyday moments spent with loved ones.

Survived by her devoted husband Al S. Thomas, her cherished children; Scott (Sharon) Thomas, Suzanne Juarez (Victor Porras), Al Thomas II, Benjamin Thomas (Haek Yung); her adoring, 7 grandchildren, Amy and Christina Juarez, Jason, Karissa, Chelby and Landon Thomas and Chelsea, 14 great grandchildren and 2 great great granddaughters.

Bennye’s life was a testament to the power of love and family. Her legacy is etched in the smiles and hearts of those she leaves behind, bound together by the threads of her immense love and unwavering devotion.

Funeral service for Bennye will be held Wednesday, February 19, 2025 from 10:00 AM at Evergreen Funeral Home, 4504 Broadway, Everett, WA 98203. A graveside service will occur Wednesday, February 19, 2025 from 11:00 AM at Evergreen Cemetery, Everett, WA. Reception will in the Evergreen Funeral Home hospitality room.

_______________________

AFTERGLOW

I'd like the memory of me

To be a happy one.

I'd like to leave an afterglow

Of smiles

When life is done.

I'd like to leave an echo whispering

Softly down the ways.

Of happy times and laughing times

And bright sunny days.

I'd like the tears of those who grieve,

To dry before the sun

Of happy memories that I leave

When life is done.

Helen Lowrie Marshall