WEEMS—With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kristy Summer Saunders Thomas of Weems, who left this world peacefully on October 16, 2025, at the age of 43, surrounded by family, after a courageous, nearly three-year battle with breast cancer.
Born on January 15, 1982, Kristy was a woman of grace, strength and boundless compassion. She was the kind of person who lit up every room she walked into, whether it was with her vibrant sense of style, warm laughter, or generous heart. A lover of fashion, friendship and hard work, Kristy found her greatest joy in being a devoted mother to her two beloved sons, Austin James (McKenna) and Andrew Ellis. Her boys were her greatest treasures and the center of her world. Though her marriage to Dana Thomas ended, their bond remained rooted in mutual respect, shared love for their children and unwavering support.
Education was one of Kristy’s many accomplishments. She earned her associate’s in business from Tidewater Community College, a reflection of her hardworking spirit and determination. That same drive led her to thrive professionally, spending eight years at the Tides Inn, where she was not only a beloved colleague but a true force of creativity and connection. She transformed the resort’s gift shop into a vibrant boutique and her presence there became a highlight for guests and staff alike. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Tides Inn team for their love and support.
Kristy is survived by her sons, Austin and Andrew Thomas; her mother, Eunice Harris; her sister, Angela Jones (AJ); her cherished niece, Mendy Coates; a nephew, Cody Coates (Farrah); great nieces, great nephews, aunts, cousins, many devoted friends and fur babies, Priscilla, Stella, and grand-dog Trigger, who were constant companions and a source of comfort.
She was preceded in death by her father, Andy Saunders; her brother, Andy Saunders Jr.; and grandmother, Katherine Schnieder.
A celebration of Kristy’s life will be held Thursday, October 23, at Currie Funeral Home, 116 East Church Street, Kilmarnock. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m., followed by a funeral ceremony at 2 p.m. Kristy will be laid to rest beside her father at Woodlawn Cemetery, Kilmarnock.
Following the services, the family warmly invites all who loved Kristy to join them for a Celebration of Life at Upper Lancaster Fire Department, Mary Ball Road, Lively.
In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Kristy by donating to her sons’ future fund: https://gofund.me/75a73327b.
Kristy’s legacy is one of resilience, love and light. She will be remembered always, as a loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and bright soul whose presence made the world a little more beautiful.
