Louise Frisby Thomas

Louise Frisby Thomas, born April 12, 1927 to Jackson C. and Gladys (Selby) Frisby on a farm near Bethany, Missouri, passed away Sunday, September 25, 2022 at the Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro, AR.

After graduating from Bethany High School, Louise attended Northwest Missouri State College. She later graduated from the University of Kansas City with a BS in Business Administration.

She met her husband John Beecher Thomas in Kansas City and the two married on December 9, 1951. The couple continued their education at Oklahoma A&M (Oklahoma State University) where they both earned an MS in Journalism. After ten years of marriage the two were blessed with the opportunity to adopt a baby Native American boy. Surprisingly, later that same year their daughter was born. They moved to Jonesboro, AR in 1984, both later retiring from Arkansas State University.

Louise had been a member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) denomination since she was 18 years old. Louise was a precious lady. She was always patient and kind, always willing to listen to and pray for those in need. She had a servants spirit with her family, church, and community. She proudly served as a deacon and elder at Highland Drive Christian Church. She previously served as a board member and volunteer for Helping Neighbors Food Pantry. Louise set a wonderful example for others, especially for her daughter and granddaughters. Louise enjoyed a long and very full life and we celebrate that her heavenly journey is just beginning.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, John Beecher Thomas, son, John Christian Thomas, three sisters, and one brother.

She is survived by a daughter, Susannah Thomas Dethrow and husband Mike of Jonesboro, two granddaughters, Shawn Autumn Thomas and husband Tom Stapersma of Alkmaar, The Netherlands, and Sheridan Isabella Dethrow of Jonesboro.

The family would like to express special appreciation to the staff at South Wind Heights, especially June Stokes and her care givers. Also, thanks go out to Dr. Revel Porter, Dr. Ben Owens, and the staff at the Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held at a later date.

For lasting memorials please consider donating to the Flo & Phil Jones Hospice House or to Helping Neighbors Food Pantry.