Barbara Ann Thomas

Barbara 'Barb' Ann Thomas age 57 of Gary, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday morning, January 23, at her home.

Barbara was born March 16,1967, in Hammond Indiana.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Gayle; brother, Allan Thomas, parents in-law, Roy and Toni Welch; nephew, Anthony and great-nephew, Atlas.
Barbara is survived by her partner, Steven Welch; children, Lisa (Jon Short Bull) and Michael (Samantha); brother, Michael (Dawn); sisters, Susan (late Terry) and Kathy; sisters-in-law, Kelley, Vicki (Hal), Debra (Charlie); brother-in-law, Jeff (Kathy); her beloved grandchildren, Cody, James, Ethan, Brooklyn, Aliyah and baby Eleanor and her many nieces and nephews.
Barbara loved to decorate her house for every holiday. She also enjoyed reading cuddled next to her dog, Sammy, and taking care of her many plants. She loved the ocean and collecting seashells. Most noted by all is that Barbara loved taking care
of people and spending time with her grandchildren. She worked tirelessly for many years as a custodian for Lake Ridge Schools. She took immense pride in her work and even brought her holiday decorating skills to her workplace. She was honored by the Board of Education for her dedication. When asked, her nieces and nephews describe Aunt DeeDee as loyal, selfless, kind, and just a little bit raunchy. To her grandchildren she was “Mimi.” A devoted grandmother who loved going to as many events as possible to support her beloved grandchildren.
She also leaves many other family members and friends who will sadly miss her. There are too many to list but if you met Barb for even a brief period, you were touched by her kindness, quirky sense of humor and generosity of spirit.

“What we have once enjoyed, we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” --Helen Keller

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025 beginning at 3:00pm followed by a Memorial Service at 5:30pm at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Road (one block south of Ridge Road) Highland, IN.

For further information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling 219-838-0800 or visiting us at hillsidefhcares.com

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