Bobbie Jo Thomas

Bobbie was born on November 26, 1970, in Lansing, Michigan, to Ross Donald Ried and Star Whitford. She grew up in Mason, Michigan, where she developed the fierce spirit, determination, and unwavering loyalty that would define her throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Cary Ried, and her parents, Ross Donald Ried and Star Whitford.

Bobbie is survived by her children: Nicholas (Cassandra) Davis, Heather (Luke) Robinson, Camryana Thomas, Mercedes Thomas, and Adriana Thomas. She was the proud and devoted grandmother of Skylie Davis, Kamden Davis, Wyatt Davis, Raelynn Chaney, Colby Crandall, Alayah Loughan, Nathan Loughan, and John Robinson, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to her life. She is also survived by her siblings Dana (Brian) Ried-Kelley, Jim (Shannon) Harkness, Jeff (Corrine) Cecil, Renee Ried, Christopher Ried, and Billy Joe (Emma) Taylor, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

To know Bobbie was to know someone who loved with everything she had. She was a true spitfire—never one to leave anyone wondering what she was thinking—and she spoke her mind with honesty and conviction. But beneath that strong exterior was a woman with an enormous heart. If you needed someone in your corner, Bobbie was the first person you called. Whether you needed advice, a shoulder to lean on, or simply someone to listen, she was always there without hesitation. She loved fiercely, supported wholeheartedly, and never stopped believing in the people she loved. No matter what life brought, Bobbie was only one phone call away. She listened without judgment, gave advice when it was needed, and reminded those she loved that they never had to face life’s challenges alone.

Bobbie had a special love for animals, enjoyed drawing and coloring, and found happiness in the simple moments spent with family. She coached cheerleading for many years, including coaching her daughter Heather from third grade through high school graduation. She was demanding because she believed in hard work and always saw the potential in those she coached. She encouraged others to become the very best version of themselves.

While Bobbie deeply loved being a mother, becoming a grandmother was one of the greatest joys of her life. Her grandchildren were the light of her world. She wasn’t the grandmother who simply watched from the sidelines—she was on the floor playing, laughing, coloring, and becoming a kid again right alongside them. Nothing made her smile brighter than seeing her grandchildren, and their excitement to see Grandma was always met with the same joy and enthusiasm she gave in return. Her grandchildren knew without question that they were deeply loved.

Bobbie’s favorite phrase, “I love you, mean it,” perfectly reflected the way she lived her life. She didn’t just say those words—she demonstrated them every single day through her unwavering love, fierce loyalty, and constant support.

Although our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that the love Bobbie gave so freely will continue to live on through the family she cherished above all else. Her laughter, strength, honesty, and unconditional love have left a permanent mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the VFW, 1243 Hull Rd., Mason, Saturday, Aug. 1 from 1-4 p.m.