Lorace Jones Thomas, age 80, of Broadway, NC, peacefully passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2020 holding her daughter’s hand and surrounded by her family.
She was born in Richmond, VA on October 20, 1939 to the late Walter Coston Jones and Mary Evelyn Polk Jones. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, of 58 years, Johnie Darrell Thomas and her brother William Emmett Jones.
Lorace had a passion for education. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from the Woman’s College of the University of North Carolina, her Master’s Degree from the University of North Dakota, and her Doctorate from Duke University.
Lorace began her career teaching home economics in Somersworth, New Hampshire. She also taught sociology for Methodist College and Campbell University.
Dr. Thomas continued to help students pursue their educational goals by serving as the Registrar/Director of Admissions at Central Carolina Technical Institute, Assistant Dean of Students Services at Central Carolina Technical College, and the Director of Continuing Education at Methodist College.
She also served as Director of Continuing Education and Graduate Studies at Campbell University and as the Director of Admissions at Fayetteville Technical Community College.
Dr. Thomas continued to help others through her work as a guidance counselor at J. Glenn Edwards Elementary School and retired after many years of service.
She is survived by her son John Matthew Thomas of Broadway; daughter Stephanie Thomas Green of Sanford; and brother Walter Richard Jones and wife Sununta of Southern Pines.
A private graveside service will be held.
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