Jun. 20, 1933 - Nov. 16, 2025
Date of Service: Nov. 21, 2025
Remembering Phyllis Parkin Thomas
Phyllis Parkin Thomas, whose life was marked by service, adventure, and deep devotion to her family and faith, passed away Sunday, November 16, 2025.
She was born in Cowley, Wyoming, on June 20, 1933, to LaFayette Don Parkin and Betsy Jane Jones.
Growing up in Whistle Creek, Wyoming, Phyllis embraced a rugged upbringing, often spending her mornings herding cows on her horse, Ginger. This foundation of hard work led her to graduate from Byron High School with a small class of ten.
Phyllis married George Thomas of Bridger, Montana. Their journey together began in Casper, Wyoming, where she worked at Casper National Bank processing home loans. Their life led them next to Bismark, North Dakota, before the couple established their long-term home in Rupert, Idaho, for 60 years. Most recently, Phyllis moved to Syracuse, Utah, living near her daughter Colleen.
A committed member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Phyllis cherished her great love for the Savior Jesus Christ. Her service in the Church was extensive, especially with the youth, serving in roles like Mutual Improvement leader, YWMIA leader, Mutual leader, and camp director. She also served as Sunday School coordinator, Primary activity day leader, and Sunday School teacher.
Phyllis was famous for her generosity and neighborly spirit, known for her "drop and run" dinners, always having a listening ear, and being ready to help others in need. Her personality even spiced up the work of the farm; during beet harvest, she often had a surprise waiting for everyone when she crossed the tracks to dump her load.
She is dearly missed by her four children, Don (Pat) Thomas, Colleen (Russell) Lynch, Mark (Terry) Thomas, and Nicole (Mike) Toner; 13 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her two brothers, Clyde Parkin and Jack (Loreen) Parkin, both of Rupert, Idaho.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, George Thomas; her parents; and her sisters, Ruth (Leo) Kocherhans and Joann (Dale) Kidd.
The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, November 21, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - Rupert Idaho Stake Center, located at 324 E. 18th Street, in Rupert, with Bishop Boyd Bingham officiating. Burial will follow at Rupert Cemetery.
Family and friends will be received from 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, November 20, at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th Street, in Burley, and from 10 until 10:45 a.m. Friday, at the church.
