Dora May Thomas

TUSCOLA - Dora May Thomas, 93, of Tuscola, IL, passed away at 4:40 a.m., Sunday, May 8, 2011 at the Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, IL. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, May 11, 2011 at the Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, 705 South Main Street, Tuscola, IL with Rev. Patty Johansen officiating. Visitation will be held from 5:30 pm until 7:30 pm on Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Tuscola Township Cemetery, Tuscola, IL. Mrs. Thomas was born on December 30, 1917 in Pontiac, IL, the daughter of Scott and Daisy Brittain Combs. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Ray D. Thomas. They met in Springfield, IL and were married on August 28, 1956 in Tuscola. Other survivors include her son Ronald L. Gillette and his wife Carol of Oswego, IL; daughters Karen E. Reed of Tuscola and Jill Susan Thomas of Denver, CO; brother Lloyd Combs and his wife Aldene of Bloomington, IL; sister Catherine Hoke of Champaign, IL; 10 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter Sandra Ladd, grandson Michael Ladd, 2 brothers, Bruce Combs and Ira Combs; 3 sisters, Ruth Erny, Angeline Schoan and Lydia Stahler; and a half-sister Ruby Bridenbaugh. She was also beloved by her extended family, which included many devoted nieces and nephews. Dora lived many years in Springfield, IL, where she and Ray raised their family. She was employed by the Secretary of State's office. Those who knew Dora found her to be a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs. She always believed that "this will be the season." She is still waiting (but she loved them anyway). When not glued to a Cub's game, Dora ran a welcoming household where friends and family could always find a warm hug, laughter around the kitchen table, and an outstanding piece of pie. Online condolences to the family may be sent to hilligossshraderfh.com. Obituary written by family member. Online guest book at http://legacy.com/obituaries/herald-review/