Dorina A. Thomas

Dorina Alaniz Thomas, 81, passed away on January 5, 2025, after a long and brave battle with cancer. Born on October 9, 1943, in Kingsville, Texas, to devoted parents Raul and Alida Alaniz, Dorina was the beloved wife of Jesse Thomas. She is survived by her husband, Jesse; her sister, Iza Gonzalez; her four children: Oscar Javier, Omar (and wife Kristine), Dori (and husband Dion), and Jessica (and husband Andrew); and her six cherished grandchildren: Olivia (24), Simone (17), Julian (13), Layne (12), Isaac (11), and Miller (9).

A woman of great intellect and ambition, Dorina earned a doctorate in the Philosophy of Education from the University of Michigan. She went on to serve as a university professor in Macomb, Illinois, before relocating to Dallas, Texas, where she enjoyed a fulfilling career as a high school counselor until her retirement in 2005. Throughout her professional life, she balanced her career with raising her four children, setting a remarkable example of dedication and perseverance.

In addition to her academic and professional accomplishments, Dorina had a deep passion for a wide variety of hobbies, including ceramics, sewing, woodworking, and painting. However, music was perhaps her greatest love. She played multiple instruments-saxophone, clarinet, and flute-and was actively involved in various bands throughout her life. Beginning her musical journey with the saxophone in 4th grade, she continued to play it throughout her life, maintaining her devotion to music until the end.

Dorina was also deeply involved in genealogy, serving as the president of the Genealogy Organization Hogar in Dallas. She conducted extensive research into her family's roots and published a book documenting her findings, which became a treasured legacy for her family.

In her retirement, Dorina and Jesse embraced the joy of travel, exploring the world together while cherishing time spent with their loved ones. Dorina's legacy is one of love, strength, and wisdom. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, and her kindness, generosity, and inspiration will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 from 3:00 - 7:00 PM at Sparkman-Crane Funeral Home in Dallas. Additional services will be held in Kingsville under the direction of Turcotte-Piper Mortuary. A visitation will be held on Sunday, January 12, 2025 from 5:00 - 9:00 PM at Turcotte-Piper. A funeral mass will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 10:00 AM at St. Martins Catholic Church in Kingsville, followed by interment at Chamberlain Cemetery.