Mary Thomas passed away peacefully on May 29, 2017 at the Villa at Lincoln Park. Mary was born on October 8, 1918 in Shuqualak, Mississippi to James and Lucretia Goodwin.  She was the second oldest of nine siblings. In 1938 in Macon, Mississippi, Mary married Sanders Ray. To this union six children were born. The family moved to Racine in 1956, where Sanders and Mary enjoyed the blessings of family life until his death in 1965.  Mary was last employed by the UW-Nutrient Extension Program, retiring in 1980.

Mary lead a full and active life.   She sought to be a good friend to others and spread sunshine wherever possible.  She appreciated and enjoyed the support and friendship of many who crossed her path. She was a faithful member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, and was an active member with the Senior Mission and the Mother's Board; and attended Sunday School regularly.  She also enjoyed participating in the Sr. Bowling League and Neighborhood Center Quilting/Sewing  Circle.

In 2006 she was united in marriage to Grover Thomas, a union which brought much happiness and joy until Grover's  death in 2016.  She will be missed and fondly remembered by six children:, Ernest (Frances) Ray, George Ray and Major Ray of Milwaukee; Barbara Bell of St. Louis, MO;  Larry (Jeanette) Ray of Atlanta, GA; and Gloria (Oliver) Briggs, Jr of Racine; stepson Theodore (Betty) Thomas, Pastor Joseph (Dorothy) Thomas,  both of Racine, her sister Rosie Robinson of Murphysboro, IL;  and a special sister-in-law Marie Goodwin of St. Louis, MO.  Mary dearly loved and prized her 22 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, two great, great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends that she cherished so much. She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers: James, Osie, William and Jimmy Goodwin. Three sisters: Herodia Lightle, Lena Goodwin and Naomi Goree.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 5, 2017 in St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church at 11:00 a.m. with Bishop Lawrence L. Kirby officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 until time of service. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery.

Service Details

Monday, June 5, 2017

St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church

• Visitation 10:00 a.m.
• Funeral Service 11:00 a.m.
• Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery

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