Mary (Betta) Thomas 1933-2022 She is survived by her daughter Karen Shales and Greg Spencer and Brady Spencer. Betta lived a full and adventurous life. She traveled to most of the continents. She enjoyed Hunting in Africa, visiting the Great Wall of China, etc. In her younger years, she was a bridge silver life master; playing all over the world. One of her memorable events was kibitzing with Omar Sharif. She moved to South Padre Island in the 70’s, and embraced island life becoming an integral part of the area. She was very involved in the local SPCA’s. An avid dog lover, her Shar-Pei Suke, was a known TV personality for charity events. It was her 2 Brussels Griffons (Scamps) that were most remembered. Whether it was assisting in getting fins for dolphins, new flippers for turtles, or preserving their eggs to hatch; Betta was one to actively participate in helping any wildlife in need. She began her life on the Thomas Ranch in Raymondville, with her parents, Maria and Harl Thomas, her sisters Belle, Harl, and brother Billy. She went to school in Raymondville and Hockaday, later attending Texas Tech University where she met her husband who was in the Air Force. She moved on with her life, living in California, Colorado, San Antonio, Louisiana, Houston, Harlingen then South Padre Island where she fell in love… with fishing... She was an annual patron of the Ladies Kingfish Tournament. She lived on the bay and delighted in the birds, and sea shelling. She loved to dance, enjoy life, and a good party; some of hers were legendary. She was a character on the island that she loved so much and will be missed by her many friends and family. There will be a placement of her ashes and those of her dog’s ashes on the bay as she always desired. Family and close friends are invited to board Breakaway Cruises, 33384 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island, TX (Sea Ranch Marina) on Monday, April 4, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a luncheon to follow. Text or email Karen at (956) 966-2073 or shalesk@aol.com if you plan to attend the placement of ashes and/or luncheon. Please visit her obituary at www.thomaegarza.com for any updated information. A “Celebration of Life” will take place on Tuesday, April 5, 2022 at the Coral Reef 5301 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. --Please--, in lieu of flowers, donate to the local SPCA’s or your charity of choice, in her name. You may sign the online guestbook of Betta Thomas at www.thomaegarza.com. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Home and Crematory, 395 S. Sam Houston, Blvd., San Benito, TX 78586.