Mary Elizabeth Thomas

Our mother, Mary Elizabeth Thomas died peacefully in her sleep on February 22, after a long struggle with dementia. As our memories of Mary bubble up, we remember her skill and passion for making art. Her paintings and collages won many local awards, were colorful, sophisticated, and fun. We also remember her involvement in community theatre, both as a board member and as an actor.

Our father, James Thomas, preceded Mom in death, and his death was a hard pill to swallow for Mom. High school sweethearts, they were married for 56 years, and were devoted to each other. In their later years, after we were grown, they relocated to San Francisco for a number of years. During this time they traveled the world.

Mom was the director of religious education at St. Mary’s Episcopal church in her in her 30’s, worked as a substitute elementary school teacher for a time, and worked for many years in fashion retail. Anyone who knew our mother will instantly remember her as a fashion maven and a woman with style.

Her spiritual life was rich as she studied the writings of Carl Jung, even traveling to Zurich to study at the Jungian Institute. Mom and dad were adventurous in their travels; for example, renting a home in Split, Yugoslavia for six months. She was interested in dreams and the unconscious, believing that our journey through this life was enriched by paying attention to them.

When all is said and done, what we remember most about our mother was her kindness. She had a big, open heart, and taught all of us the value of empathy and respect for others. Mary is survived by her sons Christopher (his spouse Deborah), Tim, and Tony (his spouse Mel), her daughter Mary Francis, and her grandchildren Polly, Vanessa, and Chelsea. Goodbye mom. We love you.

Services are scheduled for March 4th, 3:00, at St. Mary’s by the Sea, in Pacific Grove