Carolyn Nelson Thomas Obituary (1938 - 2021)

Carolyn Thomas passed away on February 1, 2021 at the age of 82. She was a force to be reckoned with living life on her own terms from beginning to end. She was much more than a pretty face. She had a keen sense of humor, a quick wit, a bold laugh, and an occassional sharp tongue with matching salty vocabulary. When her children were grown, she enrolled at the University of Utah. She earned two Bachelor of Science degrees and a Masters degree in Social Work. She also added Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to her accomplishments. She worked at the State of Utah as a Supervisor in Child Protective Services. A brilliant mind for common sense and problem solving, she devoted herself to saving and helping abused, neglected and abandoned children. She loved the work, but hated the work politics. She was curious and delighted learning something new. A lifelong voracious reader, she devoured twisty mysteries. She savored the opportunity to know recurring characters. Louise Penny checked all the boxes. She was a regular watching PBS and never missed anything by David Attenborough. Carolyn LOVED all animals. Her animal friends brought joy, laughter, silly playfulness and dear companionship. Through the years she shared her home with beloved dogs (Minnie, Jazbee, Pansy) and cats (Percy, Bruce, Twitter, Zippy, Alley, Little One). Her generosity also extended to outside cats (Smudge, Pumpkin), the occasional raccoon family and anyone just needing a good meal or warm bed. The neighborhood animals no doubt cherished her as a trusted friend. Survived by daughter~ Tamyra (Tamy) Thomas, son~ Rick Thomas, cat ~Little One and brother ~Earl Nelson (Darlene). She was loved; she will be missed beyond words, but will never be forgotten. As Carolyn requested, there will be no viewing or service. Her ashes will be scattered per her specific instructions. To honor Carolyn, if you have a pet~ give it a hug and buy it a treat. If you don't have a pet, find someone who does~ give it a hug and buy it a treat or consider adopting a pet in need.