Helen Marie Thomas

Retired Wal-Mart greeter Helen Marie Thomas, 66, of Washington, died unexpectedly Tuesday, March 23, 2004, at home. She was born May 30, 1937, in Washington, a daughter of Albert L. and Emma Scott Thomas. She attended Eighth Ward Elementary School in Washington's West End and graduated from Washington High School in 1955. She enjoyed her 10-year job as greeter at Wal-Mart, starting soon after the store opened, and later moving to its Trinity Point location before retiring at the end of February. She made many friends with customers and co-workers. Prior to that, she worked as a seamstress at Bobbie Brooks Co. in Arden for several years. Surviving are three sons, Joseph R., David L. and Richard L. Thomas, all of Washington; and a brother, James W. Thomas of Washington. Deceased are two brothers, Albert J. and Robert H. Thomas. THOMAS - Friends of Helen Marie Thomas of Washington, who died Tuesday, March 23, 2004, will be received from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday in William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 395 East Maiden Street, Washington, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, March 29, with the Rev. James Inghram officiating. Interment will follow in Washington Cemetery.