08/01/2025
We celebrate the life of Dr. Thomas an advocate for Dine language and for educators for many years. Her leadership and her advocacy for youth is a model for future generations of teachers and families.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 30, 2025
Navajo Nation Council pays tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Marjorie “Grandma” Thomas
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The 25th Navajo Nation Council honors the life, legacy, and contributions of Dr. Marjorie “Grandma” Thomas, who passed away at the age of 94. A lifelong educator, cultural advocate, and mentor to generations, Dr. Thomas’ legacy is deeply rooted in her dedication to Navajo youth, language, and community.
“On behalf of the Navajo Nation Council, we extend our prayers and heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr. Marjorie Thomas,” said Speaker Crystalyne Curley. “Her passing marks the loss of a voice that spoke with wisdom, compassion, and clarity for our people. Her teachings and leadership will continue to guide the next generation of Diné leaders.”
Dr. Thomas was born in 1931 in Ganado, Arizona. As a child, she attended the Ganado Mission boarding school, where she was punished for speaking Navajo. That experience shaped her resolve to preserve and teach the Diné language throughout her life.
She earned her GED at age 29 and pursued higher education, eventually earning a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University and a Master’s and Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of New Mexico. She served as a teacher, bilingual coordinator, principal, and Associate Superintendent for the Chinle Unified School District.
Dr. Thomas helped launch the Navajo language program in Chinle and remained a tireless advocate for curriculum reform and cultural preservation for over three decades. In recognition of her lifelong contributions, she received honorary doctorates from both the University of New Mexico and Diné College.
The Council recognizes her authorship of two bilingual children’s books, White Nose the Sheep Dog and Bidii, which continue to promote literacy and cultural identity among Navajo youth. Thomas authored a third book titled “What does ‘Died’ mean?”, which was a Navajo language children’s book published by Salina Bookshelf.
“Grandma Thomas reminded us that true wealth is not material,” said Speaker Curley. “She taught that wealth lives in our language, in our stories, in how we raise our children, and in how we care for one another. That is the foundation of our government and the strength of our sovereignty.”
In her later years, Dr. Thomas founded and led the Central Navajo Youth Opportunity Coalition, raising funds and walking annually from Chinle to Window Rock to advocate for the creation of a youth center in the Central Navajo Agency.
Her well-known quote, “You are special, you are unique, and you count,” continues to uplift the spirits of young people across the Navajo Nation.
Speaker Curley added, “The Navajo Nation Council gives thanks to Dr. Marjorie Thomas for her decades of leadership and her enduring commitment to our people. May her spirit continue to walk with us, and may her teachings remain strong in our homes, schools, and governance. Ahéhee’, Grandma Thomas.”
Funeral services for Dr. Marjorie Thomas will be held on Friday, August 1, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Chinle, Arizona. A burial will follow at the family plot, with a reception scheduled at the Chinle Catholic Hall at 2:00 p.m.
Contact Angela Thomas at (505) 515-1185 for more information.
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