Shirley Lou (Kennedy) Thoman, age 89, of Kemmerer, died peacefully on Friday, Jan. 15, 2021, at the Sandy, Utah, home of Rhonda Whitaker, who was caring for her.
Shirley was born on March 26, 1931, in Ogden, Utah, the daughter of Oscar and Rodella Kennedy. She graduated from South Rich High School in Randolph, Utah, in 1949, where she excelled in academics and participated in many extra-curricular activities.
Shirley married her eternal companion, Alfred Clark Thoman, on July 23, 1951, in Paris, Idaho. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake City Temple in 1953. She was devoted to raising her six children, avidly supporting them in all of their activites. In addition, she was the best ranch-hand Al Thoman ever had.
Surviving Shirley are her two sons, Randy (Dawn) and Jay (Trudy) Thoman; two daughters, Nancy Petersen and Rhonda (Kerry) Whitaker; 16 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren.
Welcoming her on the other side of the veil are her husband Al, her son who died at birth, Oscar Albert, and her daughters, Rickie Lee and Dixie Rae.
Shirley’s family will never forget Thanksgivings at the ranch, made special by her preparations and cooking, and the many family members who gathered there.
Shirley taught life’s lessons by example: she never complained about challenges or difficulties; family togetherness is always a time to celebrate; faith and attending the temple are important priorities; and a family’s role is to love and support each other. Family graveside services were celebrated on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021 at the Randolph Cemetery in Randolph, Utah, where she will be interred next to her husband.
Ball Family Chapel of Kemmerer was entrusted with arrangements.
