Reta Nadine Thomas' Obituary
Reta Thomas of St. Helens, Oregon, peacefully passed away surrounded by her beloved family on December 19, 2023. She was born in Zurich, Kansas, to parents Richard and Caryl Bair. At the age of 2 ½, she and her family moved to St. Helens, Oregon, where she attended McBride and St. Helens High School. She graduated in 1951.
Reta met the love of her life, Donald “Gene” Thomas, in May 1951. They were married August 6 of the same year in Vancouver, Washington. Reta and Gene were married for 53 years before he passed.
Reta worked as the Attendance Secretary at St. Helens High School for 28 years and treasured all of her “kids.” She could remember all their names and families, even after leaving the school system.
Reta was a deaconess of her church for several years and was also in charge of baptism services. Her love of God and her church were very important to her.
Reta wanted to be remembered for loving her family, her love of gardening and flowers, and many trips to the beach cabin at Ocean Shores, clam digging, reading, baking, and making porcelain dolls.
Reta was a devoted wife and mother. She is survived by her three children: Susan Vocana (Don), Darrell Thomas (Julie), and Sheryl Thomas (Troy); 7 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; and three great, great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Donald Thomas, and granddaughter, Jody Thomas.
A Celebration of Life will be held on January 20th, 2024, at 11:30pm at Warren Community Fellowship.
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