“Judy” Thomas

Mildred "Judy" Thomas, 81, of Detroit Lakes, MN, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, November 22, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on April 29, 1943, in White Earth, MN, she was the daughter of Reverend William J. Hanks Sr. and Mary Ellen Roy. Judy spent her early years in Pine Point, MN, before her family relocated to Ft. Yates, ND, where her father served as the Episcopal Priest for the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation. It was in Ft. Yates that Judy met and married Philip "Junior" Thomas in 1962. Together, they raised five children: Mary, Phil, Ann, Alan "Sonny", and Bart.

Judy began her professional journey as a Teacher's Aid in Ft. Yates and later pursued her education degree through the Future Indian Teachers (FIT) Program at the University of North Dakota, graduating summa cum laude in 1976. Her teaching career spanned many years and locations, including positions on the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation in Ft. Yates and Bullhead, SD. In 1996, she returned to Minnesota to teach at the Pine Point School on the White Earth Chippewa Reservation—an institution she had attended as a child—before retiring in 2005. Throughout her career, Judy left a lasting impact on her students and colleagues alike.

Known for her vibrant personality and mischievous spirit, Judy brought fun to those around her. She enjoyed dancing, singing karaoke, outdoor concerts, and hosting cookouts at her home. A frequent visitor to Las Vegas to gamble and spend time with her daughter Mary, Judy cherished every moment spent with family and friends.

Judy is survived by her children: Mary; Phil (Karma); Ann; Sonny (Joel); and Bart; as well as her grandchildren: Kris, Brendon, Jayce, Aleisha, Philip, Isaiah, and Cody. She also leaves behind her sister Betty "Beebes" Red Horse; brother Sherald Hanks; numerous cousins; nieces; nephews; and great-grandchildren.

Judy is also survived by her youngest child, Cha Chi, her little nine-year old dog. Cha Chi was her constant companion and was with her until the end, never leaving her side. Cha Chi is adored by all and will remain in the family home with Sonny and his family. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Junior; siblings Frances "Jonsey" Hanks, Wilma "Bobbie" McGregor, Bill "Beeker" Hanks, and Tom Hanks.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Joel Hoffman for his unwavering support and care during Judy's later years and illness.

A visitation for Judy will be held at David-Donehower Funeral Home, 609 US HWY 10 E., Detroit Lakes, MN 56501, on Monday, December 2, 2024 from 5 to 7 PM. A prayer service will close out the evening at 6:00 PM. The funeral service will be held at St. Columba Episcopal Church, White Earth, MN on Tuesday, December 3 at 11 AM. Visitation will be one hour prior. Burial will follow in St. Columba Episcopal Church Cemetery, White Earth.