Claire A Thomas

Born October 25, 1933 in Savanna to Max and Dorothy (Bouvia) Emery, she married William Raymond Thomas on October 26, 1951 in Peoria.

Surviving are her husband; four sons, Michael (Linda) Thomas of Nashville, Tennessee, William Thomas and Walter (Marsha) Thomas, both of Pekin and Patrick (Michelle Wotton) Thomas of Marquette Heights; one daughter, Susan Thomas of Pekin; eleven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and one brother, Jim Emery of Washington.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister.

A homemaker, Claire had worked as a secretary for Milam Audio and as a bundle driver for the Pekin Daily Times

She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Pekin, Pekin Women of the Moose Chapter #673, and the Pekin Community High School Wrestling Boosters Club and Quarterback Club.

Claire enjoyed camping, playing cards, reading, crocheting, and in earlier years, playing volleyball.

Her funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, November4, 2008at the Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel, where visitation will be one hour before the funeral. The Rev. Gary L. Ford will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association2580 Federal Drive, Suite 403, Decatur, IL 62526.