Search by Name

Search by Name

Debra Ann Thomas

Debra Ann Thomas obituary

FUNERAL HOME

Rochester Cremation Services

1605 Civic Center Drive NW

Rochester, Minnesota

Debra Thomas Obituary

With profound sorrow, we announce that on May 6, 2025, our beloved wife and mother, Debra Ann Thomas, passed away at the age of 70, ascending to join the angels she cherished throughout her life. She is survived by her devoted husband, Gary L. Thomas, with whom she shared nearly 49 years of marriage, having wed on May 24, 1976. They initially made their home in Brookville, PA, before relocating to Florida a few years ago, and later to Rochester, MN, to be closer to their daughter as their health needs increased. Debra is also survived by her two very supportive children, Michelle (Rebic) Rand and her husband Brian of Rochester, MN and BJ Thomas and his wife Tish of Brookville, PA. She was most proud of her grandchildren, Ian (Cora) Rand and Emma Rand, Braden Thomas, Brent (Kylee) Wolfe and Nathan (Abbey) Wolfe along with 2 very special great-grands, Grant (10 months), and Sophie (1 year). Born on October 23, 1954, in St. Mary's PA, to the late Joseph and Helen (Johnston) Young, she was preceded in death by her two brothers, John and Tom and is survived by her loving sister, Vickie (Randy) Russell, Ridgway, PA, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Debra was also blessed with her bonus children, Tammy (Meley) Randy (Zayden) Young and TJ (Jen) Beamer, and her beloved dog, Mia. Known for her infectious smile, she was surrounded by a vast circle of friends from both Pennsylvania and Florida. She enjoyed trail rides on the Siltop trails in Sigel, PA, where the "Jolly Jaws" trail has been dedicated in her honor. In accordance with her wishes, there will be no viewing, a picnic will be held in Pennsylvania later this summer. In her memory, she requested that friends release balloons with smiling photos of themselves, sharing them on her Facebook page, as she awaits their joyful reunions in spirit.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by KIMT on Sep. 19, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Debra Thomas

Not sure what to say?





0 Entries

Be the first to post a memory or condolences.

Make a Donation
in Debra Thomas's name

Memorial Events
for Debra Thomas

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Rochester Cremation Services

1605 Civic Center Drive NW, Rochester, MN 55901

How to support Debra's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Debra Thomas's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more