Kay Lois Thomas

Born in Lewistown on June 8, 1939, Kay lived a life marked by creativity, devotion, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone she met.

A gifted artisan and entrepreneur, Kay was the proud owner of the Country Yarn Shop, where she shared her passion for knitting and crochet with generations of women in Lewistown and the surrounding communities. Her talent was recognized nationally when she contributed hand-knitted sweaters to several American Women’s Lifestyle magazines. More than a craftswoman, Kay was a teacher, mentor, and friend-always eager to pass on her skills and encourage others to create beauty with their hands.

Kay’s love of cooking was legendary. Her meals rivaled the finest restaurants, yet they were always served with warmth and generosity. Her rose and flower gardens transformed her home into a private oasis, welcoming pollinators and delighting family and friends alike.

Above all, Kay was a devoted wife and mother. Her strength and calm presence anchored her children, especially during the long hours her husband, Gary Keith Thomas Sr., served as a Pennsylvania state trooper.

Her home was a haven of love, laughter, and resilience.

Kay is survived by her beloved husband, Gary; her children, Mark E. Thomas (Michele), Gary K. Thomas Jr. (Cindy), Ruth E. Hetrick (Scott), and Michael D. Thomas (Lori); grandchildren, Jessica Weikel, Rachelle Bethea, Kaitlin O’Brien, Nicholas Thomas, and Christopher Thomas; great-grandchildren, Ethan Lang and Makayla Weikel; siblings, Keith Mauery and Harold Mauery Jr.

She loved to travel, taking multiple cruises to exotic island paradises with Gary and close friends. Her support for neighbors and the State Police community reflected her deep commitment to service and solidarity.

Kay’s fun-loving spirit was unforgettable-like the time she spilled red nail polish on a white carpet and staged a playful ‘crime scene’ photo to mark the moment. Her humor, warmth and creativity will live on in the stories we share and the lives she touched.

A viewing will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, at Heller-Hoenstine Funeral Home, Woodlawn, 200 N. Main St., Lewistown, with a funeral service to follow at 1 p.m., with the Rev. Allen Hulslander.

Interment will take place at Macphelah Presbyterian Cemetery, Belleville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Kay’s memory to the Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police Foundation online at: Support the PA FOP Foundation — PA FOP Foundation. Also, donations can be sent by check to: PA FOP Foundation, 5262 E. Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.hellerhoenstinefuneralhome.com.