Obituary of Dorothy M. Thomas

Dorothy Drake Thomas, 84, of the Oak Valley section of Deptford Township, NJ, died October 11, 2021, peacefully surrounded by her family.

Dorothy “Dot” was born February 5, 1937, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, to Brent and Kathryn (O’Hara) Caldwell. 

Dorothy attended Woodbury High School where she was part of the drill team, a member of the friends of animals club, and a member of the Future homemakers club. During her time there she met Bill. Shortly after, on February 19, 1955, she married the love of her life. They went on to have 10 beautiful children and create the Thomas legacy. 

Dorothy enjoyed spending time in the Poconos and Stone Harbor. Dot was an avid bingo player, absolutely loved cooking, and enjoyed frequenting the local Amish markets. Everyone knew her for her “famous” iced tea. But most of all, she loved her family and adored her grandchildren. She will always be remembered for her larger than life laugh.

Dorothy is survived by her loving husband Bill; her children William Thomas (Denise), Kathy Thomas, Carrie Paynter, Dorothy Thomas, Joseph Thomas (Maria), Patrick Thomas (Tracey), Patricia Hagenberg, Jeffrey Thomas and Jennifer Thomas; eighteen grandchildren, twenty-one great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Brent and Kathryn, her brother James “Brent” Caldwell, and her son Richard.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her visitation on Friday, October 22, 2021 at 9:00AM in the St. Margaret's RC Church, 3rd. & Beech St. A memorial mass will follow at 10am. Inurnment at Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery.