Caretha Fae (Pickell) Thomas, aged 85, passed away at home on November 29, 2025, having lived a fulfilling life.

Born on October 28th, 1940, in Elk Falls, Kansas, to Carroll Pickell and Letha (Laurie) Pickell. She is preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Ed Thomas; her brother, Dale; and her sons, Eddie, Victor, Chad, and daughter, Shiela.

Caretha loved family gatherings, hosting many holidays in her home for an extended family. She is survived by her daughter Sylvia Jackson (Rod), sons Justin (Marti), Craig (Jennifer), daughter-in-law Barb, and dozens of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and cherished friends.

Caretha had many talents and interests: gardening, sewing, painting, and charity work. For the past decade, she has hosted a painting class. After family, her main focus was her decades-long membership in Epsilon Sigma Alpha, especially her work supporting St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Caretha will be buried with her husband at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.