Our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, educator, and faithful disciple of Jesus Christ, Joan J. Thomas, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026 in her home, at the age of 91.

Joan lived a life marked by faith, service, learning, and love. She was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully in many capacities throughout her life. Among her most cherished opportunities for service were her 23 years as a temple worker and serving as a missionary alongside her husband in Minnesota. Her quiet testimony, steady example, and willingness to serve blessed countless lives.

Education and lifelong learning were important to Joan. She earned a bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University and a master's degree from Arizona State University. She devoted much of her professional life to helping others learn and succeed, first as an elementary school educator and later as Director of the Mesa Community College Writing Center, where she encouraged and assisted students for many years.

Above the kitchen window in her home sat a small reminder that reflected the way she lived: "The time to be happy is now." Those words guided her outlook on life. She found joy in simple blessings, in family gatherings, in meaningful work, and in serving others. More than any title or accomplishment, she will be remembered as a loving, involved, and supportive mother and grandmother whose kindness, encouragement, and example enriched the lives of her family.

Joan is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years, Charles N. Thomas; her son, Charles Barry Thomas (Kimberly); her daughters, Mary Ann Riggs (Paul), Julia Turner (David), and Jennifer Thomas; one surviving sister Carol Wells; 15 grandchildren; and 22 great-grandchildren. Her legacy of faith, love, service, and devotion to family will continue through the generations who were blessed to know her.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude for the many friends, neighbors, and loved ones whose kindness and support have been a blessing through the years.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Pinedale, Arizona. A viewing will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 10:00 a.m.

While we will miss Joan deeply, we rejoice in her life well lived, in the family she nurtured and loved, and in the hope of being together again. Her lasting example of faith, kindness, learning, and joyful service continues through the family she loved so deeply.