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Starla Thomas Obituary
April 20, 1946 - July 7, 2014
Starla Sue Thomas, age 68, died suddenly in her home on July 7, 2014.
She was born in Klamath Falls, Oregon, on April 20, 1946 to Beverly and Starla Thomas. She graduated from Klamath Union High School in 1964 and Oregon State University in 1968 with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. She went on to earn her Masters Degree in Special Education from Oregon College of Education, and then her Administrative Credential from Portland State University.
Starla was a teacher of all grades, in addition to being a reading specialist and a curriculum resource teacher. She was also a principal at several Salem-Keizer Elementary Schools.
In addition to her education career, she was a member of Morningside United Methodist Church, serving in many ministries. Furthermore, she was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma and Assistance League Auxiliary of Salem-Keizer, having been a charter member. She was a past member of American Association of University Women, Confederation of Oregon School Administrators, and Salem Education Association.
She is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Ken Webb-Bowen, nephews Craig and Todd and his wife Candice Webb-Bowen, grand nieces and nephew, Allie, Payton, Kailynn, Ellie and Davis Webb-Bowen, and adopted grandson Gabe Gilmour. In addition, she is survived by many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Morningside United Methodist Church or Assistance League Auxiliary Educational Activities. All contributions may be sent to Morningside United Methodist Church, PO Box 3076, Salem OR 97302 with the memo line designating the charity of choice. All contributions will be forwarded to the selected charity.
A Worship and Celebration will be held Wednesday, July 16, at 10:00 AM at Morningside United Methodist Church, 3674 12th Street SE, Salem, Oregon.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Starla Thomas
July 20, 2014
Linda and Ken, So sorry for your loss. You should be proud of her from what her peers wrote. Our thoughts are with you and her extended family. Linda and Lynn Long
Carole Stewart
July 16, 2014
I am shocked and saddened to her of Starla' passing. She was such a wonderful person and a great principal. Her first priorities were always her children and her staff. I will never forget when one of my kindergarteners holding a wet, dripping paint brush in each hand trapped her in a corner of the room. She handled it with humor and love. Goodby Strla--I will miss you so much.
Shelley King
July 13, 2014
Starla was a beloved friend and a consummate educator. Her dedication to children was reflected in her career as well as her personal life. Kind, good-natured and willing to help wherever there was need, Starla inspired us all. I will miss her.
Christopher Ben
July 13, 2014
Starla you were there in good times and bad. You helped me through a lot. I will never forget when you locked your self in the neighbors garage and was yelling for me to let you out. You will be forever in my heart.
July 13, 2014
Too soon for such a sweet lady...many thanks to Starla for leading us...she called us her children. Gloria Lesher, Retired Teacher
Jane Morris
July 13, 2014
I was fortunate to teach at Morningside Elementary with Starla as my principal. Amazing educator and person. Her support, communication and skills shined every day. So sad to hear this news.
Sherri A
July 12, 2014
I have known Starla since she started to teach. I am so shocked and saddened by this news. She will be missed.
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