Ruth Thomas

Age 99, of Elmira, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at Bethany Courtyards. Ruth was born on May 22, 1916 in Nanticoke PA. She was the daughter of David and Pauline Richards. Ruth was predeceased by her husband William J. Thomas in 1971; sisters, Melba Williams and Shirley Vacca; brother David "Harry" Richards. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, William J. and Vivian Thomas of Horseheads; daughters and son-in-law, Joan R. and Neil Smith of Yorktown IN, Carolyn P. Parry of Coronado CA; sister-in-law Bette Richards formerly of Pine City; 5 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. Ruth was a faithful member of North Presbyterian Church for 73 years. She was a longtime volunteer of the Arnot Ogden Hospital Auxiliary with over 4,000 hours of service. Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 West Water Street, Elmira, on Monday June 29, 2015 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. Donations in Ruth's memory may be directed to the North Presbyterian Church Food Pantry, 921 College Ave., Elmira NY 14901 or a charity of choice.