Gloria Ann Thomas

CHUICHU VILLAGE - Gloria Ann Thomas, 65, of Chuichu died on Aug. 15, 2020.

Mrs. Thomas was born on Oct. 19, 1954. She graduated from Casa Grande Union High School in 1972 and attended Arizona State University. She worked for Noranda Lakeshore Mine, the Gila River Indian Community and Gila River Business Enterprises. She then returned to Central Arizona College and obtained a degree in 2002.

Her public service began with representing her community on the Sif Oidak District Council of the Tohono O'odham Nation and various committees. She continued to work for the district for 10 years. She was the only Native American to serve on Gov. Janet Napolitano's Small Business Council from 2002 to 2007. She was a devout Catholic who leaned on her faith through her struggles. She enjoyed reciting the rosary and attending Mass. She had a big heart and shared her love with everyone. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends and traveling. She loved to cook and shop.

Survivors include her husband, Delbert; two daughters and a son, Jennifer Thomas, Shalynn Lopez and Mark Thomas; and four siblings, Alex Blaine III, Darryl Blaine and Mary A. Blaine and Margarita Thompson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Johnny and Helen James Blaine, and three siblings, Andrea Blaine, Irvin Thompson and Duane Blaine.

J. Warren Funeral Services in charge of arrangements.