Devon Nakima Thomas

On Friday, September 16, 1983, in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, our world was blessed with the bright, beautiful spirit of Devon Nakima Thomas. On Friday, November 21, 2025, at just 42 years old, Devon’s journey on this earth came to a close at Nazareth Hospital. Though her time here ended far too soon, the love she poured into this world will continue to live on through every life she touched. She was the cherished daughter of Dianne L. Thomas and William F. Bines, both of whom have passed on before her, and have welcomed her back in their loving arms.

Devon came into this world as the youngest of her mother’s two children and the youngest of her father’s six children. When she was just three years old, her mother, Dianne, passed away from cancer—a loss that could have dimmed a lesser spirit. But Devon’s life was held together by the unwavering love of her 19-year-old sister, Denise, who stepped into motherhood without hesitation. Denise didn’t just raise Devon; she nurtured her, protected her, and poured every ounce of love she had into her. Their relationship was one that anyone could admire—equal parts sisterhood, friendship, and an unbreakable bond forged by life’s highest and lowest moments.

Even childhood memories of Devon remain with Denise like her humor and spark—like the day she devoured a chocolate cake and insisted she hadn’t touched it, even as icing and crumbs decorated her entire face. Denise could never stay mad; Devon’s laughter always followed, and soon they were both smiling again. That was Devon—quick-witted, sweet, and always able to bring joy where it was needed most.

When Devon was eight, she became an aunt to Sharnese, though they were raised more like sisters than aunt and niece. Their playful singing battles—each trying to outsing the other—became treasured memories, echoing with laughter and closeness. As the years passed, Sharnese came to rely on Devon’s wisdom, her honesty, her sense of humor, and her ability to understand without judgment. Devon wasn’t just an aunt; she was a guide, a confidante, a second mother, and a safe place in human form.

Devon attended Philadelphia public schools and graduated from George Washington High School. She later explored culinary arts at The Art Institute of Philadelphia, but it was in the debt collection industry where she discovered not just a job, but a calling. For over 20 years, she built a career grounded in resilience, determination, and the unmistakable way she carried herself—strong, smart, and charismatic.

On November 9, 2014, while celebrating her sister’s birthday, fate placed Phylicia in her path. From that night onward, their story unfolded in the most beautiful way. Their connection was immediate—filled with laughter, kindness, and the kind of chemistry that can’t be duplicated. Little did either of them know they would fall in love with someone from the opposing football team: Phylicia, a proud Dallas Cowboys fan, and Devon, a fiercely loyal Philadelphia Eagles fan. Their rivalry only added flavor to their love—playful banter, friendly competition, and a bond deeper than any game could challenge. After seven years of building a life rooted in trust and partnership, they sealed their love in marriage on June 22, 2019.

With Phylicia came a seven-year-old girl who would change Devon’s heart forever—Alienah. At once, Devon saw in her a reflection of her own childhood: bright, resilient, and spirited. The love she gave Alienah was pure, natural, and unconditional—she loved her with a mother’s heart. Devon cherished every moment of watching her grow, and she spoke with pride about her upcoming prom and high school graduation. Even though she has departed this world, her spirit will celebrate every milestone with Alienah, just as she always wished.

Devon also poured her love into her fur babies, Shelly and Queenie, who filled her home with joy and companionship. Shelly, her elusive cat, only showed herself to those she trusted. Queenie, her loyal dog, was known throughout the neighborhood—and especially at Dunkin Donuts, where staff would prepare her pup cup the moment they saw Devon’s order.

Above all, Devon was a light. Her humor could lift the heaviest heart. Her presence filled any room. Her love was steady, loyal, and fiercely protective. She adored spending time with her family and friends—just as long as the Philadelphia Eagles weren’t playing. Her devotion to her team was unmatched, and we will forever remember her as the most loyal Eagles fan we know.

Devon is preceded in death by her: sister, Cassandra Bines; aunt, Karen A. Grady and uncle, Marvin Thomas Sr.

Devon leaves behind her: devoted wife, Phylicia Thomas; beloved daughter, Alienah Daniely; in-laws, Lillian Victoria Potter and John C. Jackson; sisters, Denise M. Thomas and Kimberly Bines-Bright; brothers, Eric Bines, William Bines and Darren Bines; niece, Sharnese L. Armstrong; nephews, Kenneth F. Armstrong Jr., Taj Bines and Kenneth F. Armstrong Sr.; aunts, Brenda Rogers and Lorna Thomas-Hill; uncles, Randolph Thomas, Brian Thomas and Bruce Thomas; cherished fur babies, Queenie Thomas and Shelly Thomas; and a host of family members and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Her absence leaves a quiet space we can never fill, but her love, laughter, and spirit remain with us always. To know Devon was to love her—and to be loved by her was a gift that will last a lifetime.

A visitation service will be held 9:00AM to 11:00AM, Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Len E. Ellis Funeral Home, 529 Rising Sun Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19140. A celebration of Devon's life will be held 11:00AM, Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Len E. Ellis Funeral Home. Interment is private.

Professional services entrusted to Crabiel Parkwest Funeral Chapel of New Brunswick, NJ. Please visit www.crabielparkwest.com to sign the online guestbook