Carole Jean Thomas

She was born at the old St Joseph’s Hospital to retired Phoenix Police Chief, Charles P. Thomas and Betty Thomas they have preceded her in death. Carole attended Creighton and Longview grade schools. She went on to North Phoenix High School where she was a Pompom girl, a competitive swimmer, and a cast member in the Mask of the Yellow Moon. She earned degrees at Phoenix College and Arizona State University. Carole taught 4th graders at Littleton School in Cashion, Arizona. She later worked for the Phoenix Public Library circulation. She belonged to AEA and AFSCME. Carole’s interest in politics lead her to volunteer for several Democratic political campaigns, and was often seen working the election polls. She was leader of Cactus Wren Troop, Girl Scouts of America.

She enjoyed traveling, summer vacations at Laguna Beach, and visiting Disneyland with friends and family. Directly after 9-11, she and Lenny traveled to New York and Hong Kong. They spent time seeing the world: up and down highway 1 from Mexico to Oregon, flew to Hawaii, Washington DC, and even a visit to Disney World in Florida. Her hobbies included reading a good mystery or poetry, attending sporting events in particular ASU football.

Carole is survived by her husband of over 30+ years Leonard Tang, her five children, Steve (Janie), Vicki (Dale), John (Donna), Bill (Uta), and Bob (Kathryn), twelve grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, her older sister Betty Bucey, and nieces Kelly and Dana. Oh, and beloved dogs Tina and Gringo.

Contributions may be made to Banner Alzheimer Institute.