Connie May Larson Thomas

Connie May Larson Thomas

1931 ~ 2024

On December 6, 2024, Connie May Larson Thomas returned home to that God that gave her life and into the arms of her beloved sweetheart, Vaughn L Thomas. She left a legacy of faith, love, family, music, determination, humor and acceptance.

Connie was born on June 25, 1931 in Manti, Utah. She described her birth by saying, “I came howling into life during the Depression, the third child of four children born to Harris and May Larson, at the home of Grandma Ruesch.” She grew up in rural Moroni, Utah where she developed an incredibly strong bond with her siblings, Dean, Bert and Barbara, and later with Glenna, Patsy, Paul and stepmother Selma.

Growing up without a mother at home, Connie developed remarkable resilience, finding strength in her family and friends. She learned to use prayer, humor and determination to navigate difficult times, even saying, “We may not have had much, but we never lacked love for each other and our dad.” A fond memory she shared was after her mother had left when she was just 10, Connie hand-stitched matching 4th of July dresses for her and Barbara. Both girls proudly wore them despite sideways looks and whispered comments. This reflects how Connie carried her positive attitude and tenacity throughout her life, always overcoming challenges and expecting the same from those around her. Connie’s friend group, the “charming half dozen” as they were affectionately called, and their families were also a strength and support to Connie throughout her life.

She met Vaughn Thomas in high school and soon fell completely in love. He met all her requirements for a future husband, which were, “he couldn’t drink or smoke, he had to love little children, and he had to respect his mother.” Vaughn said that her quick wit and ease of communication was what drew him to Connie. Their sealing in the Manti Utah Temple on November 10, 1949 marked a transformational moment in Connie’s life, one in which she committed herself not only to Vaughn, but to a life of faith in the Savior. Together, they inspired that same conviction in their entire family.

Through promptings from the Spirit, Connie came to know that music would be a driving force in her family. Was it a problem that she’d only received four piano lessons? Not at all! She taught herself how to play, accompanying in church worship and countless family sing-alongs. At Connie’s insistence, her children practiced the piano daily, learned to play additional instruments, and created family musical programs to share with congregations, international communities, and the elderly––especially during the holidays.

She loved gathering family and was a master party organizer. Whether it was a birthday party, a holiday, or just an excuse to be together, she was the mover behind the event. She sewed the costumes, made the clothes, took the pictures, and cooked delicious meals and desserts. These events often included dancing the “Hokey Pokey” and singing favorite “oldie goldies”, like “Side by Side” and “I Love You Truly.”

As a mother, she had high expectations for obedience. She demanded respect and could back up disrespect with the appropriate consequences. She encouraged her children to work hard, to do a job well and to always leave time to play a game. Her home was organized, clean and inviting. She taught, “a place for everything and everything in its place.” She loved her husband and children deeply and was always there to show her support and care.

As a grandmother, she embraced and loved her grandchildren. Each grandchild believed they were Grandma’s favorite because she told them so. She showed up to cheer them on in their athletic events, plays, and musical performances. Her cookie jar was never empty, and “making memories” was her mantra. When playing games with her grandchildren, her instructions were clear: “Call me Connie, so I don’t have to feel bad when I beat you.” Her love was also felt in hand-stitched baby blankets, birthday cards, and late night talks.

“Love you more” ended every conversation. “Love you more” was also what she did. She served with the Young Women, in the Sunday School, Primary and Relief Society. She taught in each of those organizations and changed lives with her testimony. Together with Vaughn, she helped open the BYU Jerusalem Center in the late 1980s. For six months, they had powerful experiences sharing history and the gospel of Jesus Christ with students. They served two missions: one in the office of the Oklahoma City Mission and the other teaching English in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. She was a natural at organization and bookkeeping and used those talents in her callings and service. She was a friend to all as she served others with her hands and heart. She had eyes to see those in need and was quick to respond with a listening ear and a helping hand—including her famous and delicious homemade chicken noodle soup.

Connie loved sports. She excelled at baseball, running and the “tricky bars.” She was also BYU’s biggest fan and watched every football and basketball game. If they won, she watched the same game multiple times. She would hoot and holler and was caught jumping on the couch screaming when plays turned to BYU’s favor.

Connie’s humor was quick and spontaneous. While standing at the sink and putting on makeup she said, “Sometimes I feel like I am 90 years old!” She was 93. When others pushed her in her wheelchair she said, “You better be careful, or you could be accused of pushing people around and talking behind their back!” Her quick and clever responses in various situations brought light and happiness to all who communicated with her.

Connie was passionate about gathering Israel. She has written and compiled hundreds of histories of ancestors and friends. Because of her efforts, hearts have been turned to their fathers and relationships have been healed. She has brought to light characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses of those who have gone on before. It has been life-changing for her family to be the recipient of her great work!

Connie is “loved more” by so many. Her legacy and work will continue to burn in the hearts and lives of her posterity. She is survived by her four children: David Thomas (Jeannine), Michael Thomas (Theresa), Marilyn Barry (Jim) and Kathryn Mace (Rourke), 33 grandchildren, 109 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her siblings Barbara Barton, Glenna Riddle, Paul Larson (Kathy) and Linda Ketchum (Roger), and siblings-in-law Russell Brooks, Alta Boyter, Betty Jensen (Roger) and Keith Campbell.

Connie is predeceased by her husband Vaughn L Thomas, parents Harris and Selma Larson, mother May Cramer, siblings Dean Larson (Vonda), Bert Larson (LaJune), Patsy Cox (Woody) and Carolyn Brooks, and siblings-in-law Donald Barton, Charlie Riddle, Lula Irons (Kline), Rhea Campbell (Ronald Rasmusson, Norm Heaton), Richard Thomas (Ruth) and Mac Neil Boyter, and great-grandchildren Elijah Jex, Hyrum and Clara Mace.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Natalie Oustrich and the Renew Hospice team and the staff at Covington Assisted Living Center in Orem, Utah for their sensitive and consistent care of Connie.

Funeral services will be Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse at 1546 North 1100 West in Orem, Utah. Viewing will be from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. preceding the funeral.

Interment is at Highland City Cemetery, 6200 West 11000 North in Highland, Utah