Mary Thomason

Mary Thomason Obituary Devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend Mary Thomason was called home to God on May 12, 2020 in Visalia, CA. Mary was born May 22, 1935 in Van Buren, Arkansas, the first child of James Hubert and Willie Hooper. The young family moved to Kansas City, MO where they had brothers, Sonny and Bill and baby sister Betty Jo. At the young age of seven Mary lost her mother and baby sister when a train struck the stalled family car. She had to grow up very fast as she continued to be the "big sister" to her brothers. She raised her three children, daughter Mariann and brothers Rockie and Eddie Henry in Kansas City. Mary moved to Visalia, Ca in 1992 to be closer to her daughter, Mariann. In 1993 Mary met the love of her life, Robert Thomason and they were married on September 6, 1994. Mary continued to spread her wings and became a licensed Real Estate Broker and Notary Public. Mary was active in the Chamber of Commerce and the Visalia Republican Women, where she served as President in 2002-2005. Mary also enjoyed volunteering on many local, state and National elections and running the Republican Party of Tulare County Headquarters. She had a passion for the young students and took many of them under her wings. Mary is survived by her daughter, Mariann Hedstrom (Steve) of Visalia, sons Rockie and Eddie Henry of Kansas City and step-son Greg Thomason of Visalia. She is also survived by 7 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren along with many nieces, nephews and friends. She is preceded in death by husband Robert, parents; James and Willie Hooper, as well as brothers Sonny and Bill Hooper, sister Betty Jo and granddaughter Wyndra Ann Henry. Our family would like to thank Casa Grande Senior Care and Kindred Hospice, especially Nurse Michele for the loving care she received. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Tulare County Sheriff's PAL Program. This nonprofit reaches out to boys and girls to build lasting bonds with law enforcement and safer communities (www.TCSOPAL.com). To honor Mary a Celebration of life will be held at on June 18, 2020 at 4:00 PM at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 East Caldwell Ave., Visalia, CA.

Mary Thomason

May 22, 1935 - June 5, 2020