Jackie Edwina Thomas

She was born on September 2nd, 1941, in Middleburg, Va. The daughter of the late Robert William Thomas and Margaret Ella Curtis, Jackie was the last surviving sibling of fifteen brothers and sisters.

Jackie graduated from Jefferson High School in Leesburg in 1961. She spoke of being a cheerleader and having to make her own cheerleading clothes. Jackie had a remarkably interesting childhood growing up in a household with so many siblings. There was never a dull moment. As a young adult, she worked for the Arlington Archdiocese, and she worked in a hair salon. Jackie was an avid bowler and participated in many leagues. Jackie loved the Outlander books and television series, and she was part of the Outlander Club Group. She thoroughly enjoyed her time spent with wonderful people with this shared interest.

Her life-changing event occurred when she began working at St. John the Beloved Catholic Church in 1985. Her time there spanned more than three decades – retiring in 2019 - and she adopted the Catholic faith as her own. Her work included taking care of the priests, preparing their clothes and meals. She loved working there. She loved attending Mass, attending Senior Socials and singing in the choir. She was in her element having fellowships with many people who attended the church.

Jackie was beloved by all who knew her. She possessed an engaging personality. She was exceptional at raising the spirits of those she would encounter, usually by telling one of her fantastically funny stories. Jackie was the light of all lights, doing her part to create a better world through donations to various charities. Her true gift was that of being a humble servant and being a splendid example of the Catholic faith. You would never see her without her favorite cross and her Rosary. Both were with her as the Lord took her home.

Jackie is survived by her loving children – Patricia Thomas; Fennell Thomas (Annette Reno Thomas); Michael Thomas and Kenneth Thomas. She leaves behind three grandchildren – Marcus Washington, Alicia Thomas, and Naomi Thomas. Jackie dearly loved her grandchildren just as they loved her dearly. Jackie is survived by extended family members.

Though we are all saddened by her passing, we can find comfort in knowing that she has entered eternal life with the Lord. Her legacy of love, light and laughter will remain forever in our hearts. We might be hurting and grieving, but this is far from being a sad day. Oh Happy Day is what she would sing, and we should sing it, too.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at St. John Catholic Church, 6420 Linway Terrace, McLean, VA 22101, on November 6, 2026, at 12:00 pm.