Thelma Knox Gibbons Beck, for more than 30 years one of Seattle’s most admired dance instructors, passed away peacefully in her Oxnard, California, home on October 4,
2025. She was 93. The beloved mother of Roddy Gibbons and the late Randy Gibbons—plus devoted matriarch to grandchildren, great grandchildren, and many dear friends—Thelma’s remarkable life was filled with energy, creativity, and grace.
These were qualities she shared freely with everyone she met.
Born in Renton, Washington, in 1932 to William and Beth Knox, Thelma’s fascination with rhythm began as a young child taking local dance classes near Seattle’s Green Lake. While still at Queen Ann High School, she accepted a rare invitation to dance with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo during its Pacific Northwest tour. Soon after, she founded the Magnolia Dancing School. Beginning with just two students, it grew swiftly into a cornerstone of Seattle’s performing arts community for more than three decades.
Forever an ardent student herself, Thelma expanded her school’s work to include tap, jazz, and Hawaiian dance—her personal favorite. She trained nearly 1,000 performers who went on to careers across the country, some even on Broadway. Parents often said her studio was as much about self confidence and joy as it was about technique. Students remember her gentle corrections and her ability to see potential in everyone.
Her love of dance never diminished. In her 60s and 70s she often performed Hawaiian dance with both the Wilson Ukulele Group and the United
Strummers of Camarillo. Away from the studio, Thelma was known for warmth, humor, and quiet generosity. She was first married to Richard Gibbons and later, for 45 years, to Earl
Beck—“the love of my life.”
Through that marriage, she was also connected to Earl’s sons, David and Patrick Beck. Thelma gave deeply to her community: six years with Hospice of Camarillo; two
decades with Toastmasters; a long history of college scholarships for graduates of her high school, Queen Anne (Seattle); and more than 20 years as a model and spokesperson for the American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery program. With Earl, she also sponsored guide dog trainees for the blind. She treasured her family deeply, including a special an enduring friendship with her daughter in law, Kellee, whose presence remained a source of joy and connection through all seasons of life.
The Becks were avid world travelers, but while at home Thelma loved gatherings filled with music, laughter, and good food. Until two weeks prior to her passing, she continued to bake desserts for family, friends, and neighbors.
Thelma leaves a legacy of artistry, compassion, and joy in the countless lives she touched.
A private celebration of her extraordinary life will be held Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at the Emerging Spiritual Church, 405 Telephone Road, Suite 113, Ventura,
California. (206) 297-1330