Donetta Thomas

Donetta “Sandy” Thomas—passed away on March 24, 2020 in Salt Lake City at the age of 83 after a long, suffering and courageous battle with lung cancer.

Below is my final farewell goodbye.

I left this mortal existence to join my parents and other family members who I thought of often. At the time of my passing, I was in my home where I wanted to be, surrounded by many friends who loved me.

I was born August 3, 1936 in Salt Lake City to Kathleen Nelson. At two weeks old my parents Faun Lund and Warner L Christensen of Spring City, Utah adopted me. I was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I was raised in Provo, Utah where I attended Joaquin Elementary, Farrer Jr High and Provo High School.

On March 5, 1953, I married Garth Griffin Merrill. Divorced 7 years later. On July 24, 1968, I married Charles Frederick Thomas. Divorced 3 years later. I had no luck with marriage, so I decided not to do it again.

I worked for Scott, Louie and Browning Architects from 1967 to 1977. I served as President of Women in Construction. I also served as Vice President of Women’s Architectural League.

As my chosen, preferred profession, I worked for Western and Delta Airlines from May 23, 1977 to November 1, 1993. I chose to take an early retirement even though I loved my job. I never regretted it.

I have enjoyed skiing, tennis, and especially ballroom dancing, which has taken me around the world numerous times on over 160 cruises. I have been fortunate to dance in the beautiful ballrooms of these lovely ships with wonderful dance partners.

I had a true love for all animals, especially “pups”—doggies. I missed my dog and cats and I know they are anxious to see me.

I am survived by one daughter, Vicki Lynne Merrill-Beck; two granddaughters, Candice Mary Druce and Amanda Dawn Strate; two great-grandsons, Cody L. Bringhurst and Anthony Richard Johnson (wife Chaselee); great-great-grandson Linkoln Bringhurst; great-great-granddaughters Elena Johnson and Isabelle Johnson. I love you!

I want to thank everyone who has shown me kindness and care during my lifetime. I would like to thank IHC Hospital staff and their oncologist doctors. Thank you to the staff at Aspen Ridge Rehabilitation Center. I appreciate the nurses from Aspire Hospice.

Mostly I would like to express a special appreciation to my wonderful caring caregivers and staff at Homewell Care Services. My caregivers provided loving care to me and never left my side. I was able to stay in my home because of their love and tender attention to me.

Thank you to my many friends and neighbors who visited with me, brought me goodies and bright flowers. I enjoyed our visits together.

I had an enormous generous heart. I was blessed with abundance, so I tried to give and share my earthly belongings to not only my family but to many others as well.

I have requested no formal services. I have requested that my ashes be spread in the mountains in Spring City, Utah. In lieu of flowers, you might consider donating in my name to the Road Home, Humane Society, Utah Food Bank or to any Battered Women’s Shelter. I would sincerely appreciate it.

Farewell for now my friends! Peace Out. All my love, Sandy

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