Janice Faye Thomas

Janice Faye Thomas from West Des Moines, IA passed away on March 13, 2025 at the age of 77. Born in Denver, CO, Jan made her way to Iowa by way of DC, CA, AK, Germany, and TX. She is preceded in death by her twin sister Judy Garvey and husband of 56 years Phil Thomas. Jan is survived by her daughter Courtney Thomas of Baltimore, son-in-law Wade Johnson of Baltimore, grandchildren Quinn and Ash Johnson-Thomas of Baltimore, daughter Cindy Stanbro (Thomas) of West Des Moines, son-in-law Jason Stanbro of West Des Moines, and grandchild Anna Stanbro of West Des Moines.

A military brat, Jan moved all over as a child. She met her husband Phil at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska. Jan worked as a Dental Assistant, helped Phil at Sambos, and worked at St. Ambrose University helping students find career paths. Jan retired as the Executive Director of S.C.O.P.E. in West Des Moines in the early 2000s and eventually became a priest in the Community of Christ Church. Jan loved helping people! In retirement, you would often find her driving all over the state to bring needed supplies to those less fortunate, be a listening ear for someone in trouble, or just to help serve someone in need. Jan loved being around family – especially her grandchildren and twin sister. She was an adamant naturalist and a strong advocate for her own health. Jan loved dancing, rock ‘n roll music, cooking healthy food for her family, and playing pinochle with friends.

A graveside ceremony will be held at Resthaven Cemetery on July 1st at 10 am for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in her honor to Northwest Community of Christ Church.