Obituary of Claudia Clarice Marie Thomas

Claudia Clarice Marie Thomas, 64, of Ora, IN passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Saturday, May 29, 2021.  She was born on June 2, 1956 in Chicago, IL to the late Virgil and Elvira [Wiler] Newton.  Claudia graduated from Argos High School in Argos, IN.  Although Claudia didn’t attend college directly after high school, she took the time she needed to raise her children.   Later in life, she went on to pursue her own professional goals by getting her Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Ancilla College and her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Indiana Institute of Technology.  She was currently employed at Advocacy Links as a case manager. 

Claudia dedicated her life to helping others.  She genuinely embodied the Advocacy Links mission statement of advocating for people who needed help, connecting people to fiscally responsible resources, and respecting everyone in the process.  This is true both in her professional and personal life. 

Claudia enjoyed the outdoors, especially bird and butterfly watching as well as gardening.  She also enjoyed reading.   Claudia was an avid horse racing fan and always looked forward to the annual trip she took to the Sulky Horse Races in Anderson, IN.  Most of all, Claudia adored her family and loved cooking for them and having everyone in her home for gatherings.  She will be deeply missed by so many.  

She is survived by:

Mitchell Thomas, Ora, IN Husband

Calvert (Kyri) Quimby, Talma, IN Son

Cassidy (Dawn) Quimby, Argos, IN Son

Criston (Scott) Zehner, Monterey, IN Daughter

Layla Thomas, Ora, IN Daughter

Jessica Thomas, Winamac, IN Step Daughter

15 Grandchildren

1 Great Grandson

Many Nieces and Nephews

Stanley (Susan) Quimby, South Bend, IN Former Husband

Preceded in death by:

Virgil and Elvira [Wiler] Newton, Parents

Earl Newton, Brother

LeRoy Newton, Brother

Wilma McMichael, Sister

Tommy Newton, Brother

Muriel Hartgraves, Sister

Funeral Services will be held at 1 PM EDT Thursday, June 3, 2021 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN with Pastor Dana Neer officiating.

Visitation will be from 2-7 PM EDT Thursday, June 3, 2021 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.

Memorial Contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. 

Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.