Susan Thomas

Susan was born in October 1950 in Omaha, Nebraska, the only child of William and Louise Schmaedecke. She grew up in the Field Club neighborhood, where she spent many happy summer days swimming at the Field Club pool and making memories with friends.

At the age of 19, Susan married William E. Thomas of Bellevue, Nebraska. Together, they welcomed a daughter, Emily, and shared in the joys and lessons of raising a family. Susan worked as an administrative assistant for many years, beginning at Bellevue East High School and later working at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) and Creighton University, where she eventually retired in 2013.

After retirement, Susan devoted much of her time to the people she loved most: her family. She was always quick with a joke, a clever remark, or a smile, and never missed an opportunity to make those around her laugh. She cherished time spent with her daughter, Emily, her son-in-law, Ray Loftus, and her two grandchildren, Conor and Adelyn, who were her pride and joy and truly the apples of her eye.

Susan was a staunch advocate, a fiercely loyal friend, an incredible mother, and an adoring grandmother. She loved jokes, games, good friends, family gatherings, reading, and the arts. She had a gift for bringing laughter and light into the lives of those around her, and her absence will leave an immeasurable void. She will be remembered for her spirit, her humor, her fierce love, and the joy she brought to the people fortunate enough to know her.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, William and Louise Schmaedecke; her aunt and uncle, Wilma and Bert Schneider; her uncle and aunt, Cliff and Lillian Larson; and her former husband, William Thomas.

She is survived by her daughter, Emily Loftus; son-in-law, Ray Loftus; and beloved grandchildren, Conor and Adelyn Loftus. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her greatly.

Services will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 104 Galvin Road North, Bellevue, Nebraska 68005, on Saturday, November 14, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Lunch will be served following the service.