Jana Leigh Thomas of Turlock, CA, passed away unexpectedly on April 12, 2024. She was born on April 13, 1971 at O’Conner Hospital in San Jose, CA to Richard and Darlene (Peters) Thomas.
She was raised in Tracy, CA where she graduated in her junior year from Duncan Russel Continuation School. Jana received her L.V.N. license in 2004 from Delta College and worked for the Veterans Hospital. She later went on to receive her AA degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences from Modesto Junior College.
She loved being an advocate for mental health and was an active volunteer for NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). Jana also worked for NAMI Stanislaus as a Connection Support Group facilitator and did mental health presentations at middle and high schools and to the general public.
Jana was an animal enthusiast and poured much time, attention, and care into all of her fur babies. Through the years she has saved many pets. Most all of her babies were rescues or strays that found their forever home with Jana.
Jana had an extraordinary sense of humor and her laughter was contagious to all who heard it. It made you want to hear what she had to say and the facial expressions that accompanied were very comical.
Jana was an exceptional cook and gathering at her table was a culinary delight. Jana liked trying new recipes and had a talent for hosting an enjoyable event. You were certain to have a wonderful time and feel very welcomed whenever Jana hosted a party. Jana’s skills in the home and entertaining department were very impressive.
Jana is survived by her mother, Darlene Thomas; father, Richard Thomas; two sisters, Kami Essers (Rick) and Deana (Joshua) Hoyle. She is also survived by two nieces, Cordelia and Cheyenne and two nephews, Nathan and Jeremiah.
Private services will be held.
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