Carolyn Elizabeth Thomas

Carolyn Thomas, age 82, recently passed away in the company of family in Sylva, NC, after a long decline due to dementia. She was a long-time resident of Fort Walton Beach (1972-2003) and Crestview (2003-2017) and was a familiar sight to many community neighbors and friends in both towns. 

She was most recognized as a small, quiet woman who unselfishly devoted many decades to being the primary caregiver to her disabled daughter, Mitzi Tomas. The two of them had many friends whom they saw during their daily routines of shopping, visiting and caring for elderly friends, and spending most evenings watching beach sunsets at Poquito Bayou. Carolyn also raised three sons who grew up in Fort Walton Beach, and made sure they were trained to be respectful, honest, and generous in spirit. 

Carolyn is survived by her daughter Mitzie (age 56), and two sons, Mark G. Thomas (age 56) of south Florida and Charles F. Thomas (age 57) of North Carolina, plus two grandchildren, Phoebe G. Thomas and Fletcher D. Thomas of the Baltimore region. She also is survived by several siblings and extended family of the Greensboro, NC area. 

Her family will celebrate her memory at a private event in the near future. Those who wish to honor her memory are encouraged to make charitable donations in her honor to the Jackson County (NC) Adult Day Program, which provided enormous support and enjoyment for Carolyn during the last two years of her life. This program for seniors with dementia was near and dear to her heart. Checks can be made out to the Department of Aging with a memo note “Adult Day Program- Carolyn Thomas” and mailed to Jackson County Department of Aging, 100 County Service Pk, Sylva, NC 28779.