Mar 8, 2013

Gloria Jean “Gag” Thomas, 80, of Washington, died Wednesday, March 6, 2013, at 8:39 a.m., in her home.

She was born April 10, 1932, in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late James W. and Naomi Cornelia Brown.

Mrs. Thomas was employed as a nurse’s aide in Washington Hospital for 32 years, until her retirement.

She attended Washington schools. She was an active member of St. Paul A.M.E. Church, where she served on the stewardess board, the missionary society, Lay Organization and Sunday school. She also performed clerical duties at the church.

Her love for her Lord, her church, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was extraordinary. On any given Sunday, rain, sleet or snow, she would stand in the church foyer to greet everyone with a big smile and warm embrace. She was an avid cheerleader and supporter of both the scholastic and extra-curricular activities of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, having attended practically every softball, football, basketball and baseball game, track meet, plus dance recitals, they participated in. Their various accomplishments brought much joy into her life.

During her journey with her Lord, she accumulated a host of friends, acquaintances, “adopted” children and families. Her smile was contagious, her love for others unconditional. Her most important objective was to teach others about the importance of being obedient to her Lord. Her role as a messenger for her Lord exemplified itself in every aspect of her life, including the frequent pleasure trips she liked to take on the city bus lines with her many friends.

Surviving are a daughter, Connie (John) Thomas of Washington; a stepson, Ashton Thomas of Waldorf, Md.; three grandchildren, John III (Idella) Thomas, Rodney (Katrina) Thomas and Randy (Ciarra) Thomas, all of Washington; eight great-grandchildren, John IV, Jamey, Rodney II, Randi, Jacquelyn, Xxavier, Karis and Phenix Thomas; and several nieces and nephews.

Deceased are a son, Gary Thomas; two sisters, Virginia Johnson and Betty Brown; and two brothers, William and James Brown.

She was a blessing to many generations and will be truly missed.

Friends will be received from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday in St. Paul A.M.E Church, Washington, where additional visitation will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the time of service, Tuesday, March 12, with the Rev. Samuel Ware officiating. Burial will follow in Washington Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul A.M.E. Church, 16 Ridge Avenue, Washington, PA 15301. All floral arrangements should be delivered to the church Monday. Condolences may be expressed at www.WarcoFalvoFuneralHome.com.