Neta Rae Mickelson Thomas, 72, passed away March 10, 2019, at her home in Grace, ID. She was born the youngest child of eleven to Harris Anton and Norma Letham Mickelson, on February 6, 1947, in Soda Springs, ID. Neta was raised in Lago, ID on a dairy farm. After graduating from Grace High School, she attended Ricks College. She married John Wynn Thomas on July 1, 1966, in the Logan, UT, LDS Temple. Neta was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and enjoyed serving in many ward and stake callings. She and Wynn served in the Logan Temple together for 6 years, which she loved.

In their early years of marriage, schooling and employment took them to Pocatello, ID, and Colorado Springs, CO, for a short time, but they soon returned "home." They have made their home in Grace (Turner), ID, for the past 48 yrs. While living here, Neta helped Wynn on the farm. She helped move pipe, drive grain truck, work in the potatoes, and taught the boys to ride motorcycles. Neta is a very hard worker and believed in doing a job right and well the first time around. She put her all into anything she did. Neta later worked at the Utah Power & Light Training Center in Grace. She was known there for her great cooking skills and especially her spudnuts. One of the ways she showed her love was to cook for you. No one ever went hungry at Neta's.

Her younger years she enjoyed playing softball with the City League. She enjoyed reading, playing games, picking huckleberries, drawing, painting, and spending time with family. Neta was a true friend to all and had many friends ranging in all ages. She was a great teacher, listener, friend, and example to all who knew her. She was also fun and very genuine.

Neta is survived by her husband John Wynn Thomas, and her seven children, Gary (Kari) Thomas, Brent (Cara) Thomas, Devin (Tricia) Thomas, Jerilyn (Brian) Haslam, Dwight (Candice) Thomas, Curtis (K'Lyn) Thomas, and Scott (Caitlin) Thomas; and four siblings, Daniel (Rose Mary) Mickelson, Norma Putnam, Helen (Glayd) Christensen, and Nila Panter. She was also adored by 29 grandchildren (and one on the way) and 3 great grandchildren. Her parents preceded her in death along with 6 siblings; IdaBelle Wright, Ardelle Holderness, Aloma Gregersen, Riley Mickelson, Norris Mickelson, and Lawrence Mickelson.

Neta was loved and adored by so many and will be greatly missed. We know she is carrying on her great legacy from above and that someday we will get to be reunited with her- and what a joyous day that will be!

Funeral services will be held at noon on Thursday, March 14, 2019 at the Grace LDS Stake Center. The family will visit with friends on Wednesday evening, March 13th, from 6-8 p.m. at the Grace LDS Stake Center, and on Thursday morning from 10:00 to 11:30 at the church prior to services. Burial will be in the Turner Cemetery.

The family would like to express thanks to friends, family, and neighbors who have shown their love and support during this difficult time.

Listen to service