Obituary of Frances Thomas

Frances Rudd Thomas, 88, of Greensboro died peacefully on Sunday, February 20th, 2011. Frances was the sixth child of nine children born to Albert Hamley and Mary Frances Fulton Rudd. Mrs. Thomas is survived by her two devoted sons; Michael W. Thomas and daughter-in-law Mary Claire of Greensboro, NC, and James R. Thomas and wife-Emily of Charleston, SC. Frances' six grandchildren were her pride and joy: Michael W. Thomas, II, Cristin, and Claire Thomas, all of Raleigh, Katie Thomas of Greensboro, NC, John R. Thomas and wife-Katie of Jacksonville, Florida and Christopher Thomas of Brooklyn, New York. Her only surviving brother is William Rudd of New York, NY, many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews will also cherish her memory. Frances was a life-long member of Lee's Chapel United Methodist Church along with her three Rudd sisters: Frieda McDonald, Mary Fulton Swink, and Douglas Hartzoge, all who predeceased her. Frances was active in the United Methodist Women's unit, and Circle 2 at her church. Her schooling was at Rankin School in Guilford County. Most of Mrs. Thomas' business career was spent as an Insurance Adjustor in the Fire and Casualty division of Jefferson Standard Insurance Company. Frances enjoyed her couples' Bridge clubs, and was a faithful member of the Rushettes. Frances was a die-hard Duke Blue Devils basketball team, and never missed many Brunswick stews at Lee's Chapel UMC. Jimmy and Frances were married for 63 years and lived their married life on Rankin Road, where they raised their sons. A Memorial service in celebration of her life will be held at the Lee's Chapel UMC at 11:30 m on Saturday, February 26th, 2011, and will be conducted by the Rev. Carol Williams-Gilbert, pastor. The family will receive friends in the church courtyard immediately following the worship service. The burial will be private at the Westminster Gardens prior to the service at the church. Memorials may be made to: Lee's Chapel United Methodist Church, 2303 Lee's Chapel Rd., Greensboro, NC 27405, or to the NC Chapter for Dementia at Western Carolina- 3800 Shamrock Drive, Charlotte, NC 28215-3220. Floral arrangements will be received at the Lambeth-Troxler Funeral Home, 300 W. Wendover Ave., Greensboro, NC 27408. Online condolences may be made to www.lambethtroxlerfuneralhome.com.