Cassandra Quinn Thomas

Cassandra Quinn Thomas (also known as Sandy Thomas and Sandra Cummings), age 87, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her husband and daughter, on December 26, 2025.

Cassandra was born on June 23, 1938, in Colorado Springs to Argus Cummings and Shirley Smith. An only child, she was shy and quiet by nature, but from an early age she developed a deep and abiding love for words. Reading and writing became lifelong companions, shaping both her inner life and her creative pursuits.

She was awarded the El Pomar Scholarship (1956–1958), the Colorado Scholars Award, and was a member of the Golden Key Honor Society, Boulder Chapter, at the University of Colorado. Cassandra earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature, with a minor in Women’s Studies, from the University of Colorado. Drawn to the landscapes, histories, and living cultures of the American Southwest, she later completed her Master of Arts in Teaching in Southwest Studies at Colorado College in 2000, attending classes alongside her daughter—an experience she deeply cherished. Her academic interests included the rich traditions, storytelling, art, and enduring resilience of Native American cultures, which she approached with curiosity, humility, and respect. Her love of learning never waned, and she continued taking courses at CU Boulder and UCCS and through numerous private offerings throughout her life.

Cassandra met her dear husband in Colorado Springs, and they were married at First Methodist Church in 1963. Together, they built a life rooted in family, shared adventure, and a profound love of place. She felt especially at home in the Southwest, returning often to New Mexico, where the land, light, and layered histories resonated deeply with her. She delighted in hiking, wandering, and exploring small mountain towns, listening to the stories held in landscapes and communities. The family cabin near Mount Massive was a cherished retreat—a place of reflection, creativity, and connection to the natural world. International travel further enriched her appreciation for culture, history, and human expression.

Cassandra also had a deep and gentle love for animals. In her later years, she spent countless peaceful hours watching the magpies outside her window, delighting in their intelligence and distinct personalities as they visited for treats. These quiet moments of observation and attentiveness reflected her way of being in the world—patient, curious, and deeply present.

Professionally, Cassandra worked as a librarian for Hewlett-Packard Corporation and later held several positions at TRW Colorado Electronics, including technical writer and Executive Secretary to the Vice President.

A gifted writer, Cassandra was a published poet and short fiction writer. Her creative work was often informed by her love of landscape, history, and the enduring human connection to place. She attended numerous Pikes Peak Writers Conferences and was an active member of the National League of American Pen Women. Her writing appeared in the Poetry Salzburg Review (University of Salzburg, Austria), The Almagre Review, and publications of Front Range Fiction Writers.

Cassandra is survived by her husband of 63 years, James W. Thomas; her children, Tara Sevanne Thomas of Colorado Springs and Robin Foster of California; and her beloved fluffy, tuxedo cat, Katniss. She is also survived by five grandchildren—Chad, Melissa, Sarah, Rachel, and Elianah—and three great-grandchildren.

A family friend remembers Cassandra for her quiet wit, wry smile, and welcoming presence. Her family remembers her as the steady anchor of their lives. Her passing has left a profound and enduring emptiness in the hearts of all who knew her and loved her.

A celebration of life will be held at Auric Gallery, 125 E. Boulder St. Colorado Springs, 80903 on March 26, 2026 from 5-7pm with remarks at 5:30pm. If you’re so inclined, please wear a touch of purple in honor of our sweet soul, Cassandra.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bemis School of Art at Colorado College. fac.coloradocollege.edu/ThomasMemoriam