Zoe Aliece Thames' Obituary
Zoe Aliece Thames, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on February 27th at the age of 18. Born on June 20th, 2006, in Dallas to Marc and Angelia Thames, Zoe was known for her boundless compassion, her gift of music—particularly her love for the piano—and her deep devotion to family and friends. Words that best capture Zoe’s spirit include courage, endurance, resilience, boldness, and gratitude.
Zoe had an incredible ability to communicate her emotions through various forms of art, particularly through music. Whether singing or playing the piano, she had a rare gift of expression that touched the hearts of those around her. With a curious mind and a vivid imagination, she loved to explore new ideas, learning new languages and even sign language. Zoe was always eager to try new things, from rock climbing and color guard to crafting her own paper. She embraced life with an open heart and adventurous spirit, constantly seeking to grow and discover.
A woman of many dreams, ideas, and aspirations, Zoe had a deep appreciation for beauty, a trait she inherited from her grandmother. She found joy in simple pleasures like doing her makeup, experimenting with nails, and admiring flowers—especially dried ones—and butterflies. Zoe was known for her openness, accepting everyone for who they were, and for her growing independence, as she found strength in advocating for herself and others.
Zoe was a proud 2024 graduate of Highland Park High School and a student at Dallas College, with plans to pursue a degree in social work. Her educational journey began at Spring Creek Elementary, followed by Westwood Junior High, Dallas Christian Academy, and City Lab High School.
She is survived by her loving parents, siblings Addison Leigh Thames and Hanna Dawn Vargas, her brother-in-law Matthew Gabriel Vargas, and her cherished nephew Atticus Reece Vargas. Zoe is also survived by her grandparents, Sammy Don McIlroy, Laura Lee, and Joseph Anthony Clement, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandfather Willard Leo Thames (Papa T), and her grandmother Mary Gail McIlroy.
Zoe's memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to or volunteering at the Human Impact to bring the friendship of Christ and Jesus’ heart of love and hope to our homeless community.
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