Mary Kent Thomas

A native of Tangipahoa, LA and a 62 year resident of Baton Rouge, she passed away on Saturday, January 16, 2016 at the age of 79 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center after a very brief and unexpected illness. Mary graduated from LSU's Journalism School with honors. She was a real estate agent and broker with C.J. Brown for many years. As a faithful member of St. James Episcopal Church, she volunteered much of her time working with the Church as a Lector, Eucharistic Minister, and a Stephen Minister. She was a part of the Magnolia Woods Civic Association, a long-time member of Morning Callers, a contributor to the LSU Alumni Foundation, and she loved all facets of LSU sports. Mary adored animals and often would pet-sit for family and friends. With a lively, fun, and very playful side, she was a fabulous friend to a multitude of people and is dearly loved and will be greatly missed. Mary is survived by her daughter Lisa Thomas Richard (husband Gilman) of New Iberia, LA; grandson, Grant Thomas Richard of New Iberia, LA; sister, Helen Dean Kent of Houston, TX; nephew Stephen Kent Lawlis (wife Wendy) of Houston, TX; and great-niece Sarah Lawlis of Houston, TX. She is preceded in death by her parents John and Mary Kent; siblings, Jack Kent and Elizabeth Kent; and niece, Lydia Lawlis. Visitation will be on Friday, January 22, 2016 at St. James Episcopal Church (205 North 4th Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802) from 10:00 AM until the Funeral Mass at 12:00 PM. Inurnment will follow in the church columbarium. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to all of Mary's friends for their overwhelming outpouring of love and kindness expressed to them, as well as the medical professionals and caregivers at the Heart and Vascular ICU of Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. Memorial contributions may be made in Mary's name to any animal welfare association or the charity of your choice.