Susan Thomas

Susan Sherwood Thomas, a vibrant personality with a zest for adventure, peacefully passed away in her sleep on Thursday, December 21, 2023, with family at her side at Reata Glen in Rancho Mission Viejo.Born on May 28, 1935, near Chicago, Illinois, Sue cherished the memories of her formative years in Glencoe, especially summers spent on the shores of Lake Michigan with her grandparents. In 1944, the Sherwood family embarked on a memorable journey along Route 66, ultimately settling in Glendora, CA. Sue graduated from Citrus Union High School in 1952. From there she attended the University of Colorado in Boulder. Sue was introduced to her future husband, Robert D. Thomas, on a set-up date. Several moves to different cities in California later, and with the addition of two children, Kathleen "Kathy" and David, and Sue was off and running. Sue discovered her passion for real estate in Palos Verdes Estates, CA with Sunset Realty. Her vivacious energy and attention to detail made her a natural as an agent. Once the Thomas family settled in Newport Beach, CA Sue maintained her fruitful career that would span an additional 40 years at SunnyOne Reality, Red Hill Reality, Valentine Real Estate Group, Coast Properties, and Surterre Properties. Beyond her professional pursuits, Sue held a deep appreciation for spending time with friends, colleagues, and family. She loved playing bridge and Canasta, scouring garage sales and doing craft projects. She regularly volunteered at St Mark Presbyterian Church, the Newport Beach Public Library, and the OASIS senior center in Corona del Mar. She was a lifelong member of the philanthropic organization, PEO. Sue reveled in travel which included an African safari, a journey to mesmerizing India, and a cruise to Tahiti. Her move in recent years to Rancho Mission Viejo's Reata Glen Retirement Community meant she could easily continue enjoying an active and fulfilling lifestyle. She particularly relished her pre-dinner and dinner gatherings there spent with a delightful circle of friends.Sue's greatest joy came from following the exploits of her five grandchildren. She effortlessly connected with them through her quick, irreverent sense of humor and generous hospitality. A few of the cherished traditions she created included regular visits to Dad's Donuts, playing endless rounds of poker, and having a perpetually stocked refrigerator.Sue was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary Clyde "Pixie" Collins and Cynthia Ann "Cyna" Finkbiner; as well as former husband, Bob Thomas. She is survived by her daughter Kathy T. Park and family (Seattle) and son David R. Thomas and family (Cambodia), as well as numerous nieces and nephews. The world is undoubtedly dimmer without her vibrant presence, but Sue's legacy of love, laughter and pursuit of adventure will forever light our hearts.In honoring Sue's wishes, no formal ceremony will take place. Please take a moment of personal reflection and cherish the memories shared.