Kathy Marie Thomas

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of Kathy Thomas, a woman of vibrant spirit, endless creativity, and boundless love. She was a devoted Mother, Mimi, and G-ma. She departed this life on February 10th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of artistry, warmth, and unforgettable memories.

A true adventurer at heart, Kathy loved to travel and embraced life with passion and purpose. Whether she was painting vivid scenes from her travels, pouring her soul into writing, or getting her hands flour-dusted while crafting her signature sourdough bread, she infused beauty and intention into all she touched. Her home was often filled with the calming scent of incense, or her handmade soaps, oils, and balms — gifts she gave freely and lovingly to friends, family, and even strangers who quickly became friends.

She was a devoted mother to five cherished children, a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren, and a doting great-grandmother to four great-grandchildren. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who found in her a kindred soul.

Kathy is survived by her five children: Robert (Liz) Merrick, Thomas Merrick, Howard (Heather) Stephens, Russell Stephens, and Mollie (Matthew) Miller. Her children will forever carry on her legacy. They will watch their own families grow and flourish and they will all get to eventually say, "I started all of this". 

Kathy was preceded in death by her loving parents: Russell Thomas and Mollie Williams who no doubt welcomed her with open arms. Also waiting to greet her on the other side would be the two fathers of her children, David Merrick and Matthew Stephens. 

She is survived by her two brothers, Michael (Lynn) Thomas and Fred Thomas. 

Her grandchildren are: The late Katherine Green-Broder, who is survived by Jordan (Shereen) Broder, Samantha (Jacob) Merrick, Nicole (Jared) Merrick, Vivienne Stephens, Brooklyn Miller, Peyton Miller, Micah Miller and Noah Miller. Her grandchildren brought so much joy and vivaciousness to her life and she will be missed greatly by them.

Her great-grandchildren are Jackson Broder, Jasmine Broder, Addison Roberts, and Georgia Carr.

While her physical presence will be deeply missed, her legacy of unconditional and unwavering love, her art, and spirit of adventure lives on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A celebration of her life will be held on April 24th at Tulocay Funeral Home in Napa, where stories, laughter, and memories will be shared in her honor — just as she would have wanted.

The family asks that you honor Kathy by creating something beautiful, sharing a homemade gift, or simply spending time with loved ones. That is how she lived, and that is how she would want to be remembered.

“Life is the art of drawing without an eraser.”
— She lived her masterpiece well.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kathy Marie Thomas, please visit our floral store.