Mary Ann Thomas, 79, of Annville, PA, passed away peacefully on Nov. 30, 2025, at her home. Born in Hershey, PA, she was the only child of the late Frank and Elva (Diener) Lex. She was the loving wife of the late Wayne Thomas. She was preceded in death by her step-son, Christopher Thomas. Up until her passing, Mary Ann maintained her faith, kindness, grace, compassion, appreciation of all things big and small, love of family and friends, and expressed gratitude for her long life.
Mary Ann’s life can best be summed up by 5 “f” words: family, friends, faith, fun, and fur kids. In her 79 years with us, she experienced an abundance of each of these and was blessed beyond measure.
Mary Ann was a 1964 graduate of Palmyra High School. She was a loving wife, mother to her daughters, and caring grandmother. Mary Ann worked for 28 years at Kraft Foods and many years at A-Z Video. Mary Ann was a vibrant and devoted member of her community, and she could be considered somewhat of a social butterfly. She cherished her time spent socializing and playing some spirited games of bingo and pinochle at the Annville Senior Center. Mary Ann loved meeting new people and enjoyed the companionship and friendships she gained. She is remembered for her strong faith, quirky sense of humor, always having a smile on her face, and her fierce and feisty spirit, especially noticeable by not allowing the challenging times with her health to define her.
Mary Ann is survived by her daughters, Lori, wife of Peter Bulley, Lynne, wife of Michael Nye, and Karen, wife of John “Bill” Gontz; grandchildren, Nathan, Matthew, Chelsea, and Michael; and great-grandchildren, Audri, Lucy, Tori, and Emma. Additionally, she leaves behind her beloved companion and fur baby, Rusty; Dick Flowers, her former spouse and husband to cherished and honorary “sister” Rue; and many wonderful friends. Her unwavering faith and boundless love will be forever missed by all who knew her.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a funeral service at Snyder Bean Funeral Home & Crematory, 890 Isabel Dr., Lebanon, PA 17042, on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, at 11 a.m. There will be a viewing at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will follow at Grandview Memorial Park.
