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Rollin Thomas Obituary
Age 65. Rollin was a talented artist, designer, author and educator. He was born in Spokane, WA in 1947. He lived most of his life in Seattle. His passion was helping others realize their own potential. Rollin is survived by his brother Gregory Thomas and sister Lynnette Lawrence. He will be greatly missed. A Memorial will be held Saturday, August 10 at 1:00 p.m. at Lynnette's home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rollin Thomas
Martha Brooke
August 17, 2023
I just found this memorial page as I was thinking so much about Rollin tonight that I thought I would see what google might bring up.
Oh how I loved Rollin, the sweetest, constant light in my life. We shared so many fun times together, so many memories, for me, he will always be my kindest, most significant friend imaginable. Rollin was generous with me all the way through the minutes we spent together a week before he died.
In a large way, Rollin gave me the world I inhabit. I stand humbled before him. Martha Brooke, Portland Oregon
Jonathan Standridge
August 21, 2013
Rollin was a good friend to me and my family. We shared many birthday's together and other holiday's. Rollin was an extension of our family. I will miss my friend and buddy.
One of the images Rollin and I used in teaching one of our picture book workshops, it always makes me think of him!
August 16, 2013
karen anderson
August 8, 2013
I met Rollin at Concord Elementary where he did amazing volunteer work for our Attic Theater. His was an amazing talent. I enjoyed our chats in passing. He will be missed.
Jennifer Chushcoff
August 7, 2013
Rollin was a bright light and I always enjoyed my time with him at SCBWI meetings. His kind ways and words will stay with me as long as I live. So will that smile.
Rollin had a profound influence on his many students, artists and friends. We miss you, Rollin.
Elizabeth Blake
August 6, 2013
Ellen Ziegler
August 6, 2013
I just learned of Rollin's passing. I was one of a group of artists and designers that shared a studio building with him for many years. He managed to live there as well... using the "caretaker clause" in the building's rules. He taught me so many wonderful things -- tips and tricks on how to make things work or look a certain way. I was JUST thinking of him a few days ago. If anyone can give me more details about his illness or the location of the memorial, please contact me. Thank you.
anita sen
August 5, 2013
A guiding light in a storm,
A dance on a rainy day,
Joyous blessings when the sun shone brightly...
You brought all these
and more
to those whose lives you touched, dear Rollin.
I miss you.
Laurie Thompson
August 5, 2013
One of the kindest, most generous souls I have ever met, Rollin remains an inspiration on so many levels. He lives on in the many lives he has touched, mine among them.
Barbara Keevil Parker
August 4, 2013
I will treasure the gifts Rollin gave to me and so many as a friend and fellow writer. God be with you, Rollin.
Doug Holwerda
August 4, 2013
Yes...Rollin was a talented man. He was a story-teller, an illustrator, a designer, a builder and could fill a room with a song. He was a teacher, knowing so much about so many things. But to me, his close friend, it was his giant heart and spiritual gaze and his ability to love life, despite the pain, that will serve as inspiration. Thank you, Rollin. You did well and created lots.
Gerry Gilbert
August 4, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Rollins passing. He worked for the us on a couple of shows and his creativity and good humor were a good mix.
Jessica Blair (Watson)
August 4, 2013
I'm sorry to hear of your loss Lynette, I know you spoke of him so often and fondly. I remember meeting him and looking at his sketches with you.
Ralph Neighbor
August 3, 2013
Rollin, a kind critic, intellectual companion and friend. An honor to know him, a blessing true and rare. He will live on in memory to the end.
Judy Wolcott
August 3, 2013
So sorry to read about Rollin. I enjoyed his company and enjoyed working on several shows with him. He will be missed. Judy Wolcott, Lighting Designer.
Molly Blaisdell
August 3, 2013
Rollin, you were a friend and fellow artist, a true gift in my life. Your encouragement will continue on in the my art, but you will be so missed. RIP.
Mindy T
August 3, 2013
'His gentle spirit and kind heart will be missed. Whenever he walked into my library, it was always with a smile, no matter what was happening.
Joni Sensel
August 3, 2013
Rollin was a bright light, a force for kindness, a creative dynamo, and a welcoming friend to newcomers to our Seattle-area creative community. We'll miss him so much.
Lois Brandt
August 3, 2013
I'm going to miss Rollin. Every time I saw him, even in April, he was warm and upbeat. I loved peeking at his doodles during SCBWI meetings. Even his doodles were fun and spirited.
Rebekah Hosman
August 3, 2013
Rollin was a dear heart and sweet man! I was the SCBWI WWA blog editor and communicated with Rollin regularly through e-mail and in person. You will be missed Rollin.
Gail Martini-Peterson
August 3, 2013
I will miss Rollin's careful critiques of my work and our car rides to children's writers' meetings. We'd get together often and over the Internet. When he became ill, I was so happy that his sister was there to take him in while be made a valiant fight against a terrible foe. I miss him and his always cheerful spirit.
kevan atteberry
August 3, 2013
An inspiring, funny, gentle man. You will be missed Rollin.
Patti Mann
August 3, 2013
I met Rollin one night when he was a guest instructor in Doug Keith's illustration class, but he left a very lasting impression on me and continued to encourage me in my creative endeavors. His humor, spirit and sense of joy and play were uplifting and inspiring. He made the world a better place and cast a very rare and lovely light. Happy new adventures to you, Rollin.
Kristi Atwood
August 3, 2013
Lynette, Greg and Family,
Rollin had such a kind and encouraging Spirit. As much as anything he taught me that I needed to remember how play, to see through the eyes of a child, and to create from my heart, not from my ego.
I'm so glad he was able to be with you during his illness. He was so happy to be there.
Dana Arnim
August 2, 2013
Rollin has been such a positive and encouraging fixture in the creative community of Seattle. We have all lost a friend, teacher and advocate. Thanks to his family for providing him with loving support through his illness.
Elizabeth Stanton
August 2, 2013
Rollin was a good friend and inspiring teacher to so many of us. He will be sorely missed.
Doug Keith
August 2, 2013
Rollin was a good friend and talented artist. I shall always cherish the times we spent together teaching others. His enthusiasm and spirit will live on in many of us. Safe travels my friend.
e blake
August 1, 2013
"Be Well, Create Lots", that was the way Rollin always ended his classes and notes. He lives on in the hearts and minds of thousands of his friends, students, and acquaintances because he was genuine, inspiring, thoughtful, and wise.
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