Rose Marie Thomas of Atwater, California, passed away on November 16, 2018 after battling a lengthy illness. In life, she was an influence on not only her immediate family, but to the very many friends she made as well. Known for her unwavering positivity and courage, Rose held a passionate personality that proved to touch many and inspire even more.
Rose was born on September 4, 1936 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She soon moved to California where she spent her early years. Rose obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from San Jose State University before moving on to Santa Clara University for her Master’s. After college, Rose started her career at Pacific Bell — now known as AT&T — as a telephone operator. She immediately rose through the ranks, eventually retiring as Chief Special Agent Investigator. In her role, she was very vocal for Women’s Rights, and as an advocate she succeeded at balancing the income gap, winning equal pay for women at the company.
Rose is survived by her lifelong friend and significant other, Victor Riolo; her daughter and son, Lynn and Mark Thomas; her grandchildren Joshua, Teneil, Amber and William Thomas; niece Donna Meyer (Julius, Alex, and Zach); nephew Denio Sanchez and family of Albuquerque, New Mexico. She was preceded in death by her husband Neil Thomas; her brothers Eugene and Leo Sanchez (Jackie); and sister Loy Montoya (Jesse). We would like to extend a very special thanks to Bob Riolo and Brett Faris for the warmth and kindness they attributed Rose during this difficult time.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18