Shirley Ann Thomas Obituary (2025)

Shirley Thomas was welcomed into the loving arms of our Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 24, 2025 in Yakima, Wa. She was born on March 3, 1937 in Livingston, MT where she spent her childhood. She moved to Pendleton, Oregon in 1958 where she worked as a secretary/bookkeeper for The Town Shop. She met her future husband, Paul Thomas, when she applied for car insurance and he came to investigate her application. He must have approved as they began dating and were married on August 15, 1964. Shirley later spent many years as a church secretary. She was proud to be a mentor for 12 years as the Commander of AWANA (Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed), a non-denominational club teaching children about the Bible and how to be good citizens. Shirley and Paul were very active members of their church. She enjoyed family trips with their children, grandchildren and friends. Shirley and Paul spent more than 50 years together in Pendleton. In 2017 they moved to Kennewick, WA, to be close to family, where her great grandsons adored Nana and Papa Paul. Her newest great grandchild, Lilly, arrived just in time to spend a few weeks bringing pure joy to Nana's heart. Shirley was dearly loved by her family and friends, and first in her life was her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was a gracious lady in every manner, and a beautiful example of living what she believed. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Paul, parents Kay and Bob White, and son-in-law, David Dunn. She is survived by her daughters Danita (Craig) Tullis, Katy (Ben) Bossert, grandchildren Tyler (Mieko) Tullis, Jessica (Kyle) Hutchinson, Jenna (Mathew) Vogel, John (Kylee) Bossert, great grandchildren Nolan, Barrett, Jonah, Lilly, Jack, Hannah and brother Monty (Becky) Niles. The family wishes to thank the staff at Ponderosa Retirement Center and MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospice for their loving care and support. A celebration of Shirley's life will be held May 17th at 2:00 pm at Harvest Community Church in Selah. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at: www.brooksidefuneral.com