Ramona Dean Harkey Thomas

Ramona Dean Harkey Thomas, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, memories, and a family who will forever carry her in their hearts.

Ramona was born on March 9, 1947, in Bakersfield, California. She was a strong-willed and opinionated woman who was never afraid to speak her mind, but beneath that strength was a deeply loving, caring, and generous heart. She had a natural curiosity about the world and, perhaps most of all, loved people. Ramona could strike up a conversation with just about anyone and loved talking with friends, family, and even complete strangers.

Family was at the center of Ramona’s life. She cherished having everyone together and had a special gift for making ordinary moments feel meaningful. Holidays were especially important

to her. She loved preparing delicious meals, gathering everyone around the table, and making each celebration feel special. She would do anything for her family and made sure the people she loved knew they were loved.

Ramona worked for Oxy earlier in her life and later drove a school bus for the superintendent of schools, where she became a familiar and caring presence to the children she transported.

She leaves behind her children, Ricky Joe Thomas and Bricha Deàn Thomas Kendrick; grandchildren, Kennedi Lacey Kendrick James and Mason Thomas Kendrick; and great grandchildren, Wyatt Thomas James and Lilly Josephine James.

Her family will remember her for her strength, her honesty, her curiosity, her love of conversation, and especially for the way she brought people together. Her home, her table, and her heart were always open to the people she loved.

Ramona’s greatest legacy is the family she loved so fiercely. Though she is no longer here to gather everyone around her table, the traditions she created, the stories she shared, the meals she prepared, and the love she gave so freely will live on through the generations.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

Rest in peace, we love you.