Emma Thomas

Emma Louise Thomas was born 08/12/1928 in Guy, Arkansas; and passed away January 20, 2012 in Springfield, MO due to respiratory failure. She will be remembered for her sense of humor, fashion savvy and love of the Lord. She is predeceased by her parents US and Amma Battles Lane; 3 brothers Glen, Bernard, and J.A. In 1945 she was united in marriage to Paul D Matthews in Conway, Arkansas. To this union, 3 children were born; Paulette (deceased), Ronald (Karen), and Terri Luna (Mike). Paul passed away, and she was later married to Raymond Thomas of Stone Co Missouri. This marriage added four more children that she loved as her own, J Harold, (deceased), Michael (deceased), Janice Crouch, and Rita Thomas (Terry Thomas). Grandchildren that loved and survive her are Doug May, Chellie Thomas, LaRae and Jana Crouch, Michael, Mark, and Sherry Thomas, Shelly Mallonee, Christi Hilliker, Amy and Scott Luna. She is also survived by several great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren. Other survivors include her best friend from high school, Wilda DeBusk who also lives in Springfield; Tammy Clinton, the best neighbor in the world, and several nieces and nephews. Her youngest niece, Shelley Lane Herlihy of Santa Rosa, California has been with Ron, Terri, Tammy and Rita to help during this stressful time.

Emma Lou was an active member of Sunset Church of Christ in Springfield where she participated in several ministries until her health prevented her from doing so. She was a retired hair stylist by trade. Two of the best things she was known for was her apple and coconut cream pies. She was an excellent cook and kept all those around her well fed and entertained.

The family would like to thank the wonderful medical staff at St John's Hospital for the excellent care provided to our mother and family for the past 3 weeks--especially 6D, 3E ICU and 6A ICU.

Per her wishes, she will be cremated. A memorial service will be held Monday, January 23, 2012; at 11:00 at Sunset Church of Christ, 1222 W Sunset St, Springfield, MO 65807. On line condolences can be made at www.hhlohmeyer.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Fair Haven Children's Home, Stafford, MO.