Lynette Marion Thomas, age 87, peacefully passed away at home on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.

  Born on April 7, 1939, in Hazel Crest, Illinois, to Carl and Marion (Compton) Eke, Lynette lived a rich and fulfilling life. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Iowa and loved cheering on the Hawkeyes. After a brief period teaching art, she contributed her talents to the interior design firm Associated Design Consultants. An accomplished artist, Lynette especially enjoyed working with watercolor paints.

  During her college years, Lynette met and married Dr. John Philip Thomas. Their first home was in Yorktown, Virgina where John was stationed on active duty, then retired as a Reserve Naval Captain. They made their permanent home in Dunthorpe, Oregon where they raised their three daughters. She had a deep love for the arts, regularly attending symphonies, ballets, and musical plays with a close-knit group of friends. She was also a devoted supporter of her grandchildren's activities. Lynette enjoyed traveling with friends to exotic destinations, including China, Spain, Portugal, & spending time in Colorado with her daughter Liane. Approximately three years ago, she relocated to Weatherford, Texas to live with her daughter Lisa, where she became an active member of the Senior Center community, enjoying games of Bingo, painting, and cultivating new friendships.Lynette was known for her generous and open-hearted spirit. She actively supported the Pediatric Dental Auxiliary and was a passionate advocate for animals, contributing to the Oregon Humane Society and the ASPCA.

  Lynette was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Marion Eke; her husband, Dr. John P. Thomas; and her daughter, Kathleen Ryder.She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Lisa Hanna and her husband Michael, Liane Padon and her husband John, her cherished grandchildren; Austin DeWitt and his wife Brittany, Audra Renshaw, Alexis Murray Renshaw and her husband Alden, Kenton Copple and his partner Chelsi; as well as her great-granddaughter, Ava DeWitt.

  Lynette will be laid to rest at River View Cemetery in Portland, Oregon. Lynette will be remembered for her elegance, strength, infectious smile, and will be desperately missed by her family and friends.

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