Rhonda Carol Thomas

There could always be more jewelry. There could always be more food. There could always be better grades and somewhere, there was always a better hotel room. And Walter, her husband, was game for the adventure. And adventures they had — to places like Caribbean beaches, European countries and annual pilgrimages to the US Open in New York City.

In that search for more, she got multiple degrees, worked in education and poured her dreams and expectations into her daughters and grandchildren. She wanted us strong and self-sufficient and instilled in us that we were just as smart and just as deserving as anybody else. Her efforts have proven fruitful. She always made sure her children and grandchildren received the highest education she knew they deserved. When her daughter Zindia was starting first grade after moving back to Houston, the school wanted to place Zindia in kindergarten b/c of her age, Rhonda was not having it and made sure Zindia was placed in the first grade.

She was also caring. She took care of her mother, Cassinell Marshall, for years and at the end of her life. She worried about all of her family and wanted what was best for everyone. Especially her sister Cynthia who she spoke with every morning. Early.

As a child, she grew up with her mother and father, five other brothers and sisters, all the sister-aunts and whomever else came in and out of their small home and needed a good meal. Her job, even as a child, was making clothes. She knew her way around patterns and sewing machines and when her daughter Shawna played in an orchestra, she decided she could make a black velvet concert dress better than any store. And she did.

Rhonda is no longer in pain. That part is over. Maybe we thought Rhonda would beat the inevitable, because who would dare challenge her, but her smile, laugh and consistent cheekiness will live on through everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her husband, Walter, children Zindia (John) and Shawna; beloved grandchildren Justin and Alexandra, her sisters Eraca and Cynthia (Emmanuel), her aunts Katie and Faye and numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces. At a later date, the family will hold a true celebration of her life. Be ready with stories, we know you have them.