Jennifer Lynn Thomas

Jennifer “Jenny” Lynn Thomas, age 53, of Overland Park, KS, died on April 5, 2026, at Kansas City Hospice House in Kansas City, MO.

She was born on March 14, 1973, in Sandusky, OH to James and Norma Johnson.

Jenny spent her early years in Colorado Springs, CO, before moving to Lee’s Summit, MO in 1984. She was a graduate of Lee’s Summit High School where she was active on the tennis team. After graduating from high school in 1992, she attended The University of Kansas, was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority, and received a bachelor's degree in psychology in 1996. She later enrolled in a graduate program at The University of Kansas and earned her master’s degree in social welfare in 2002.

Her formal education was utilized in work to help and support others, first as a behavioral health associate at Shawnee Mission Medical Center and later as a home studies coordinator at American Adoptions.

Jenny married Mark Thomas in Lawrence, KS in 1999. She gave birth to a daughter, Annabel, in 2005 and a son, Miles, in 2007.

Jenny’s genuine kindness made her a cherished friend to many people. Her steady presence, easy nature, and subtle humor were qualities that enriched the lives around her. Her devotion to friends was only eclipsed by that for her two children. She adored them and could often be heard telling them, “I love you more than life”. Jenny was actively involved in all aspects of their lives; from trips to the zoo and amusement parks, to sporting events and theater productions, to just spending time at home playing cards, watching movies, or talking.

There are many fond memories travelling to see friends and family. Her love of the water ensured many of those trips were spent on the beach or in a boat, often with a glass of wine in her hand and great music in the air. Whether at home or away, Jenny could be found curled up next to a dog, especially her beloved Stan.

She is survived by her husband, Mark, her two children, Annabel and Miles, and her brothers, Jeff and Keller Johnson. She was proceeded in death by her parents, Jim and Norma.

Jenny was a wonderful friend, sister, daughter, wife, and mother. She will be forever remembered and greatly missed.

A celebration of life service and luncheon will be held at Bourgmont Winery located at 20299 Quivira Rd in Bucyrus, KS on Saturday, June 20th from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. To assist with planning purposes, those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP. https://evite.me/cbtmZ6vu3y

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family suggests a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, an organization that was important to Jenny and which she was a long-time supporter. A special memorial page in her honor can be accessed here: https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=9200181&fr_id=154020&pg=personal

To leave a special message for her family or to share a memory of Jennifer, please visit the guestbook below.