Dorothy Jean Thomas

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dorothy Jean Thomas 89, of Sun City, AZ. She passed away peacefully at home on April 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and love for family and friends.

She was born on August 12, 1935 in Des Moines, Iowa to Ervin and Ellena Beougher, the youngest of their five children. The family moved to Arizona in 1941 when she was five years old. She grew up in the house built by her father in west Phoenix. She graduated from West High School in 1954.

Dorothy’s journey through life was shared with Charles her husband of 71 years. And what a journey it was. Charlie’s work required several moves throughout the years. She and the children followed him with every move. They raised their three children in nine different states, finally settling back in Arizona.

Dorothy worked at several jobs when needed but her true joy was being a wife, mother, and grandmother to her beloved family. She had a passion for creating—whether through painting, knitting, crocheting, or crafting—her hands and heart brought joy to many. She generously shared her gifts, and her legacy lives on through those she inspired.

Dorothy is preceded in death by her daughter, Charlotte Lee, her parents, her brothers Keith and Russell Beougher, and her sisters Mavis Guthrie and Mildred Orton. She is survived by her husband Charles from Peoria, Arizona, sons Steven Thomas and his wife Claire of Peoria, and Bradley Thomas and his wife Dorothy of Sherwood, Oregon, seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Though she is no longer with us, we that knew and loved her are blessed to have had this kind and gentle role model in our lives. She will live on in our hearts forever.