Barbara Anne Thomas

Barbara Anne Reed Thomas was born in Columbus, Ohio to John and Ruth Anne (Carnes) Reed on December 8, 1949. She passed away from complications of dementia at Colorow Care Center in Olathe, Colorado on April 29, 2024, at the age of 74. 

Barb was a member of the national Honor Society, was a member and officer of many clubs, went to Girl's State, and graduated from Claymont High School in Uhrichsville, Ohio, class of 1968. She then went to Denver University, married her former husband, Bob Shaw, and raised their child Todd Shaw. She continued her education at Kent State University received her bachelor's degree as a single mother, and returned to Denver University, earning her master's degree. In 1976, Barb began her teaching career in Montrose, Colorado where she also met her husband, Tom Thomas. She first taught at Columbine Junior High School, where she was affectionately called "hurricane" by other facility members because of her energy as a physical education teacher, and her ability to coach four sports, volleyball, basketball, gymnastics, and track. Barb would continue coaching and teaching Physical education, Science and Health in the Montrose County schools for over thirty-five years. She also earned her "Type D" degree which allowed her to become an administrator and was nominated for "teacher of the year" several times. Barb Shaw and Tom Thomas were wed at the Methodist Church in Montrose, Colorado, on December 23, 1978. During their 45 years together, you could often see them on the sports fields and gyms, either coaching, playing, officiating or just watching their children and grandchildren. They also enjoyed seeing historical sites during their travels across the country, going to Rockies games, and the Thomas family reunions. 

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband Tom, his parents, Gordon and Marian Thomas, sons; Todd Shaw and his wife Carrie, Michael Thomas and his wife Amalia, grandchildren; Ethan, Elizabeth, Rhea, and Jove. She is also survived by her sister Jane, and her children, Reed and Carl Begley, Tom's sisters; Nancy (Walt) Horn, Janet (Chuck) Smith, Beth (Ron) McCaslin, April (Steve) Carver and Mary (Kirby) White, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews and their children. For those wishing to join in a celebration of Barb's life, please join us at Ted's Steakhouse in Montrose on Saturday, May 18th, to visit the family and share memories, anytime between noon and 2:30 pm. Refreshments will be served. Cremation has occurred and her cremains will be returned to Ohio at a later date. No other services are planned at this time.