Loretta Jean Thomas, 88

Loretta Thomas

1934 - 2023

Loretta Jean Thomas, 88, of Ottumwa, passed away peacefully June 11, 2023 at Windsor Place Senior

Living in Sigourney.

She was born November 27, 1934 in Gibson, IA to Leo and Margaret Neal Fisher. She attended school in the What Cheer and Rose Hill areas. Loretta married Ray Donald Thomas on December 19, 1951 and they were married 70 years until his death on July 21, 2022.

They farmed together in the What Cheer area until retiring to Ottumwa. They had three daughters. Loretta enjoyed caring for children, gardening, cooking, genealogy, family gatherings and traveling. She was an avid follower of all her great-grandchildren’s activities.

Surviving are daughters, Kim Selle of Fenton, MO, Lea (Lynn) Sieren of Hedrick, Debbie (Gary) Reid of Marion, IA; 5 grandchildren, Lindsay (Kelby) Epperson of Ottumwa, Seth (Kelli) Sieren of Hedrick, Cody Weaver of Marion, IL, Shawn Weaver of Fenton, MO and Chris Reid of Marion, IA; 6 great-grandchildren, Casyn Epperson, Sadie, Karsen and AnnaLynn Sieren, Evan and Michael Weaver, Lily Hartman; sisters-in-law, Ruth (Jim) Smith and Ruby Thomas of Cedar Rapids; 2 nieces and a nephew.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Donna Poe; brother-in-law, Bud Thomas and nephew, Chad Smith. “Mom and Dad are together again in their rocking chairs pointed to the West watching the green grass grow”. We love you always!

Per Loretta’s wishes no services are planned. She loved flowers and would be honored for you to plant one in her memory.

Memorials may be made to Essence of Life Hospice or to the family.

Reece Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.