The Obituary God in his infinite wisdom decided that he needed a kind, compassionate, and loving person to be his eyes, feet, and hands here on this earth, to care for his children, and to never inflict harm on anyone.  So, on September 14, 1955, God blessed the late Mr. & Mrs. Robert D. Thomas, Sr. with their first daughter, Denise Karen Thomas. Regardless of the circumstances, Needle, as she was affectionately called, would carry on with that faith of knowing what is right throughout her entire life.   On August 13, 2021, the Lord relieved Denise from her pain and suffering and called her home after many years of illness.   Educated in Philadelphia Public School System, Denise graduated from John Bartram High School in 1973. Always a nurturing and loving person, Denise was devoted to her family. She faithfully cared for her mother, Shirley Thomas, who suffered from a long-term illness, until God called her home on September 9, 1994. Denise's love and tender care greatly enriched Shirley's quality of life. Denise often recalled that her moments with Mom meant everything to her. Although not blessed with children of her own, she loved and cared for countless children, including her siblings; Lisa, Celeste and Darryl, who she affectionately called her babies. She also worked as an Assistant Childcare Aide with her Sister-in-law Betty Thomas in the Thomas Family Day Care in Philadelphia for many years. She was also employed with the Shopping Bag Supermarket in Philadelphia for 9 years. Denise will always be affectionately known for never forgetting the birthday of a family member. You could always count on a birthday wish or card from Denise on your special day. Denise would never forget or let you forget how special you are, and how old you were. More importantly, Denise made the world's best sweet potato pie. Everyone who tasted her pies became hooked for life. Her pies were always front and center at family celebrations and holidays. She would often say that "Patty Pies can't hold a candle" to the homemade pies she made from scratch. She leaves to cherish her memory: seven devoted siblings, Cynthia Johnson (deceased), Michael, Robert, Anthony, Lisa Stretching, Celeste Thomas Segure and Darryl; Stepmother Geraldine S. Thomas; sister-in-law Betty Thomas; brother-in-law Dorian Segure; host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.