Geraldine Carroll Thuesen

Geraldine “Jeri” Thuesen peacefully passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2025, in Fresno, California at the age of 86. Born in Phoenix, Arizona on August 23, 1938 to Gerald and Lorena Carroll, Jeri’s journey in life was marked by her commitment to family, community, and service.

A proud alumna of Fresno High and Fresno State—where she was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority—Jeri’s early education laid a foundation for a lifetime of learning and compassionate service. Her career as a social worker for Fresno County spanned 15 years, during which she devoted herself to improving the lives of others. Jeri retired in 1988, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and advocacy for those in need. Her steadfast faith was evident throughout her life.

Jeri was a vibrant spirit whose life blended outdoor adventure, creativity, and a passion for history and literature. She embraced the call of the outdoors with the same passion she brought to every endeavor, from her formative days in Girl Scouts to the summers spent working amidst Yosemite’s towering granite and serene valleys. An avid traveler, Jeri’s journeys enriched her understanding of the world, much like the works of Shakespeare and historical narratives that captivated her mind and heart; her love for these inspired those around her. Jeri’s artistry shone through in her skills with sewing, needlepoint, and knitting, and she has left her family and those with which she shared her creations heirlooms that will be treasured for generations.

Jeri was predeceased by her husband, Gerald Thuesen. She is survived by her son, Chris Thuesen, daughter Lynn Schaad (husband, Jim Schaad), daughter Katie Biehl (husband, Scott Biehl); her four grandchildren, Thomas Schaad (wife, Kate Warrick), Lauren Chun (husband, Derek Chun), Matthew Biehl (wife, Rachel Biehl), and Diana Biehl; and her two great grandchildren, Henry Schaad and Louisa Schaad.

Services to celebrate Jeri’s life will be held on Saturday June 14th at 11:30 AM at Woodward Park Baptist Church, 1801 E Teague Ave, Fresno, CA 93720.

Remembrances may be made to The Evangel Home, 137 N. Yosemite Ave., Fresno, CA, 93701 (http://www.evangelhome.org).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whitehurstsullivan.com for the Thuesen family.