CLARA H. THOMAS
DOVER-FOXCROFT - Clara H. Thomas, 82, wife of the late Willis Thomas, died April 19, 2002, at her residence, surrounded by her family. She was born June 24, 1919, in Garland, the daughter of Harold and Hazel (Colbath) Hill. For many years, Clara and her husband, Willis owned Thomas Home Bakery in Dover-Foxcroft. She was a member of the United Church of Christ and a past president of the D.J. Babineau VFW Post No. 3385. As a young woman, Clara crafted beautiful hooked rugs, in her last years, she learned to do tole painting. In her 60s, Clara surprised her family by getting her GED. She was known as a knowledgeable mushroom forager and a fierce card player. She had a vast collection of owls.

Clara is survived by her children, Meredith T. Bickmore of Kittery, Martha Christiansen of Norway, John W. Thomas, Md.; five grandchildren, Julie Ciampoli of Milford, Pa., Nicole Yeaton of Kittery, Jennifer Christiansen of Bethel, John A. Thomas of Troy, N.Y. and Kathleen Thomas of Albany, N.Y.; three great-grandchildren, Alexandra Ciampoli, Jackson and Haven Yeaton; her special buddy, Zora Desmarais of Dover-Foxcroft; four sisters, one brother, many nieces and nephews. Clara was predeceased by her husband, Willis; and a son, James.

Visiting hours were 1-2 p.m. Sunday, April 21, 2002, with funeral services held at 2 p.m. at the Lary Funeral Home, Dover-Foxcroft. Committal services will be conducted 1 p.m. Monday, April 22, 2002, at the family lot in Gray Cemetery, with the Rev. Kenneth Dale officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pine Tree Hospice, 65 W. Main St., Dover-Foxcroft, ME 04426.