Beloved Chattanooga Educator Carole Cooper Thomas Passes Away at 77

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Carole Cooper Thomas, a beloved and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on February 10, 2026, at the age of 77. Born in Chattanooga in 1948, Carole graduated from Hixson High School and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga before dedicating over 30 years to teaching at Signal Mountain Middle School and Signal Mountain High School. She is survived by her husband Richard, their two sons, and several grandchildren, siblings, and other family members.

Why it matters

Carole Thomas was a fixture in the Chattanooga community, known for her dedication to education and her family. Her passing marks the end of an era for the local schools and community she served for over three decades.

The details

Carole Thomas taught at Signal Mountain Middle School and Signal Mountain High School for over 30 years after graduating with a history degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. She was an active member of St. Jude Catholic Church with her husband Richard, with whom she shared over 55 years of marriage. In addition to her teaching career, Carole was passionate about shopping, spending time at the beach, and gardening.

• Carole Cooper Thomas passed away on February 10, 2026.
• Carole's Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026.
• Carole will be laid to rest in the Chattanooga National Cemetery on Monday, February 16, 2026.