Merle, as she was known to family and friends, was called home to rest in the arms of our Heavenly Father on September 30, 2026 after a brief illness.

Merle was a gentle force of nature who was a blessing to all that knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alvia and Daisy Hearne; her loving husband of 68 years, Donald Thomas, her son Donald "Butch" Thomas Jr and her brothers, Alvia Hearne Jr and James Hearne.

Born in Denver, Colorado, Merle was raised in Southern California. In June 1950, she married her high school sweetheart, Don. Together they raised their 5 children- Virginia, Don Jr., Mark, Steven, and Kathleen in Torrance, California. She moved to Mesquite, Texas, in the 1970s and finally retired in Chandler, Texas.

Though Merle will be missed in this world, there is comfort in knowing that Don is overjoyed to have his sweetheart with him in Heaven.

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at Cowell Cemetery on October 7th at 2:00 pm.