Mildred Joann Thomas

Mitzi Book Thomas (nee Mildred JoAnn Book) was born in Valley City, North Dakota on June 26, 1935 to Myrelle Rosalie (Schmoker) Book and James Anderson Book. She had a beloved sister, Nancy Elizabeth Loffelmacher, who preceded her in death and a baby brother, James Antony Book (Tony) whom she adored. She graduated from Valley City College with a degree in education and became a teacher. She got a teaching position in Great Falls, Montana where she met the love of her life, a handsome Air Force pilot named Vernon Kenneth Thomas. They married in 1958 and 10 months later, her daughter Elizabeth Myrelle Hartman (Beth) was born. A few years later, they welcomed their son, James Vernon Thomas (Jim).

The Air Force moved them to many different locations with the longest assignment being at Pease Air Force Base in New Hampshire. When Vern retired, they settled in Austin, Texas in 1974. Due to UT graduating so many teachers, a teaching position was scarce. She was offered a position as Financial Aid Counselor at Saint Edward’s University where she worked for about 20 years, earning her Master of Arts there as well. Beth and Jim also attended St. Edward’s University and this is where bonus son, David Jarrell, came into their lives. She also worked with many students who have kept in touch over the years.

Mitzi retired in 1994 in order to spend more time with her grandchildren and to travel with her husband. They went on many trips and cruises including to Scandinavia and Alaska. Mitzi loved to sew, paint, knit, crochet, cook, and garden. Vern said he didn’t like to go out to eat because her cooking was better than any restaurant. They loved spending time with their grandchildren and hosted them at Camp Mimi and Papa’s. Vern passed away in 2015, and Mitzi continued to work out at Planet Fitness, play bridge and volunteer at her church, Manchaca United Methodist Church. She was no longer able to engage in these activities when Covid hit, so she decided to sell her house and move in with her daughter to Corpus Christi. She remained active attending church at Grace United Methodist, going to plays and movies, and visiting with family that now included great grandchildren.

Mitzi missed Vern a lot, but she was determined to make it to her grandson, Cameron’s wedding in February, 2026 which she did. She came down with pneumonia a few months later and never fully recovered, passing peacefully on August 30, 2026. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and many friends and extended family members.

There are so many people to thank who have visited, who called, and who loved Mitzi. She loved to tell funny stories. You may have heard the one about her husband and the bar of soap. She spent her final months at Avir River Ridge where she received excellent care. Harbor Hospice provided an added layer of comfort and support. A special thank you goes out to her caregiver, Stephanie Silva, who made sure Mitzi had company, snacks and additional assistance. Everyone has been absolutely wonderful and they have truly been part of her village.