A soul winged its way to heaven peacefully in her sleep on April 5, 2020. Mary Murphy Thomas a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and aunt went to be with her Lord.
Mary was born March 15, 1936 to Dewey and Anne Murphy in the “infamous” village of Zwolle. Growing up in Many, many will remember her as a daring, sassy, confident, young lady. While attending Many High School, she endeared herself to many teachers and classmates. She was a Homecoming Maid, elected most popular and best all around student plus a cheerleader for the Many Tigers. After graduating high school, she attended Northwestern on a nursing scholarship. During her freshman year she was chosen Top Beauty, a very coveted award.
She caught the attention of a senior basketball player, James Ray Thomas. In June of 1955, the couple were married. Tom enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Virginia. Thus began a life filled with intrigue and adventure. As a family they traveled over Europe and where living in Germany.
She possessed a wealth of knowledge and loved to read, work crossword puzzles and watch movies. After her husband’s death, she was one brave, unstoppable woman. During her last years, she packed so much life into her world, traveling, visiting friends and relatives, living life to its fullest. Overcoming many back surgeries, breast cancer and fighting C.O.P.D. with grace, dignity, integrity, and courage. Although we may no longer physically see Mary, she has left an indelible mark on all of us who knew and loved her. During our grieving, she would want us to find comfort in knowing she is free from pain and safe in the arms of Jesus.
She is survived by one son, Kevin Thomas and wife Lisa; three grandchildren, Benjamin, Chloe, and Dillon of Chicago, Illinois; a sister, Bobbie Fletcher of Sulphur, Louisiana; a brother, James Murphy and wife Janice, of Many; several nieces and nephews, many friends and relatives.
Preceding her in death was her parents; husband, James Ray Thomas; daughter, Leigh Anne Thomas; brother, Vernon Murphy; and sister, Betty Jordan.
A special recognition of heart felt gratitude goes to Doris Cage who faithfully served Mary as a dear friend and caregiver for over 20 years.
At her request, Mary’s body will be donated to science and then cremated.
Her favorite quote by Albert Camus was “In the midst of winter, I finally learned there was in me an invincible summer”.