Mary “Nonie” J. Thomas

On the morning of January 31, 2024, Nonie passed away at home. She was 86 years old.

Nonie is survived by her husband Donald “Don” Thomas, six daughters, Karen, Michelle (Jan) Thomas, Pamela, Julie (Brian) Thomas, Stephanie (Paul) Luboyeski and Dorie; nine grandchildren, Alice, Alison, Anne, (John), Marcus (Anya) Yakhnis, Adam (Nicole) Williams, Dakota, Natalie, Emma, and Josephine; five great grandchildren, Carmella, Dominick, Travis, Harry, and Ryan. Also, survived by brother George (Geri) Garvey; sisters Judy (Mike) Garvey, and Peggy (Don) Cox.

Nonie was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Eleanor (nee Thorsen) Garvey; and her brothers Gerald (LouAnn) Garvey and David (Emily) Garvey.

Nonie was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 22, 1937. She was raised in Chicago and married the love of her life, Don Thomas on October 27, 1956. In 1961, they moved to Roselle, Illinois where they raised their six daughters. In their home, they created countless memories, which will be treasured forever. Their home also became a part of Nonie’s legacy, being transformed into the Roselle Historical Museum. In 1985, Nonie and Don moved to Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, living there for 15 years, while loving and sharing their urban, cultural and lakefront activities. In 2002, they retired to Cape Canaveral, Florida and then settled on Merritt Island to soak up the warm, sunny natural environment.

Nonie enjoyed attending the arts and traveling, which included trips throughout the United States and Europe. She had many hobbies and interests including reading, line-dancing, traveling on cruises, going to Jetty Park, and attending concerts. Nonie enjoyed numerous work and volunteer experiences, which included working with Don in his interior design business, Apple Vacations, and Amtrak. Nonie developed the childcare program at College of DuPage, in Wheaton, Illinois. She had a real passion for the preservation and support of marine life. This led to her work at the Shedd Aquarium, in Chicago. Nonie was also a lifetime advocate for social justice.

She will always be remembered by her family for her boundless energy, enthusiasm, and family vacations. Summers in Wisconsin Dells are cherished memories and part of Garvey history. She enjoyed and took pride in her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren’s accomplishments.

Forever in our hearts, Nonie will be remembered in kindness, love, and the indelible mark she left on all our lives!