Pauline Louise Thomas, 88 of Riverton, died at home May 31, 2023. Born June 18, 1934 in Cardin, Okla., Louise was the daughter of Lee and Pauline (Williams) Qualls. She attended school in Picher, Okla. The family moved to Baxter Springs in 1951 where she met her husband John H. Thomas, Sr. They were united in marriage May 6, 1952. They were divorced and later remarried in 2012. John preceded her in death May 31, 2018. To this union was born their only child, John H. Thomas, Jr. in 1953. He died Mother’s Day, May 11, 2008.
Louise was the eldest of eight children and helped raise them. She became a CNA and worked at various nursing homes and in private nursing before retiring. She was known for her wonderful cooking skills, especially her fried pies! She also loved to read and work puzzles. She wrote poetry and had some her poems chosen for publication.
Louise was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, siblings, Bob Qualls, Raymond Qualls and baby brother, Ricky Qualls.
She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Merry Thomas of Riverton; grandsons, Brandon (Shannon) Thomas of Joplin, Mo., Darrick Thomas of Riverton and Skylar (Jessica) Thomas of Galena; great grandchildren, Colton, Grady, Jakobi and Laikyn Thomas; siblings, Nancy Falling of Glendale, Ariz., Roger Qualls of Young, Ariz., Linda Edens of Baxter Springs and Anita Strecker of Joplin, Mo.; along with many nieces and nephews.
Louise has been entrusted to Derfelt’s Baxter Chapel for cremation. Graveside services will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.