Mary Elizabeth Thomas, known as Lizzie, was born in Swansea but emigrated to Utah Territory with her family as a child. A talented singer, from a young age she performed solo and was a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. As a member of the choir she was part of two historic firsts: Columbia's recording of a large choral group in 1909; and performing with the choir in the White House for the President of the United States.