Kate Ortego Thomas

Kate Thomas, 79, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 6, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on November 9, 1944, in Ville Platte, Louisiana. She was the daughter of Louis Joseph Ortego and Emma Fontenot Ortego.

She lived most of her life in Lake Charles, Louisiana. She graduated from LaGrange Senior High School (Class of 1962) and attended McNeese State University. She was a member of her church, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. She deeply loved music, playing the piano, and enjoying karaoke. She loved to sing! She was a passionate reader, she read over 500 books within the past few years alone. She also had a sincere interest in politics, American History, and gemology. She was a committed Christian and enjoyed family gatherings, especially during the holidays. She cherished spending time with her family and friends, often enjoying a 'girl's day out' with her classmates. Kate was a devoted stay-at-home mother and grandmother, taking great joy in caring for her grandchildren later in life. She had a special place in her heart for animals. She always went above and beyond, selflessly giving all her love and support to her children and grandchildren and was affectionately known as "Mom and Mimi" to everyone.

Kate is survived by her son, Warren Thomas (Jane) of Lake Charles; her daughter, Gwendolyn Thomas Dowden (Dean) of Ragley; her daughter-in-law, Wendy Thomas of Lake Charles, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Her siblings are, Larry Ortego (Carol) of St. Francisville, Orin Ortego (Dorothy) of Lake Charles, and Phyllis Ortego White (Tom) of Lake Charles. She also leaves the father of her children, Joseph Stanley Thomas of Lake Charles.

She is preceded in death by her son, Darrin Paul Thomas, her parents, and a nephew.

A Mass of Christian burial will be at 2:30 PM Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. Father Michael Beverung will serve as celebrant. Visitation begins at 1:30 PM, with the Holy Rosary beginning at 2:00 PM. Interment services will follow at Consolata Cemetery. Afterward, all are welcomed for a gathering of food and refreshments at Pujo Street Cafe located at 901 Ryan Street. 

In leiu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 935 Bilbo Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601.