De'Janai Ricari Thomas

De'Janai Ricari Thomas obituary, Detroit, MI

De'Janai Ricari Thomas

De'Janai Thomas Obituary

Visit the James H Cole Home for Funerals, Inc. - Northwest Chapel website to view the full obituary.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of De'Janai Ricari Thomas, who was called to eternal rest on October 2, 2025, at the young age of 23. Born on February 12, 2002, in Detroit, Michigan, De'Janai brought joy and light to all who knew her. She resided in Farmington Hills, MI, where she dedicated her life to making a positive impact as a Behavior Tech in the field of ABA Therapy, passionately supporting individuals in their journey toward growth and independence.

De'Janai was the beloved daughter of De'Ashia (Brandon) Taylor and Ricardo Thomas. She cherished her family deeply and will be profoundly missed by her parents, along with countless friends and colleagues whose lives she touched with her warmth, compassion, and unwavering spirit.

A public viewing will take place at Christian Tabernacle Church on Monday, October 13, 2025, from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Family and friends are invited to join in a time of remembrance and reflection. The funeral service will be held the following day, Tuesday, October 14th, at 12:00 PM, preceded by a family hour starting at 11:00 AM, where loved ones can gather to share memories and support one another during this difficult time.

De'Janai will be entombed at Oakland Hills Memorial Gardens in Novi, MI.


In honoring De'Janai's life, we remember her vibrant spirit and the kindness she showed to those around her. Her legacy of compassion will forever remain in our hearts.

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

James H Cole Home for Funerals, Inc. - Northwest Chapel

16100 Schaefer Hwy, Detroit, MI 48235

Make a Donation
in De'Janai Thomas's name

How to support De'Janai'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
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
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
Ways to honor De'Janai 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