Isabelle Thomas

Isabelle Thomas, 90, formerly of Greeley, died Friday, October 2, 2009 at her residence in Danville, Vermont. She was born December 3, 1918 in Indianola, Nebraska to Archibald and Jeanette (Short) McNeil. She grew up in Indianola and graduated from Culbertson High School in Culbertson, Nebraska. Isabelle went on to attend Kearney State Teacher’s College but had to stop after being diagnosed with diphtheria. In 1940 she married R.C. Tallman. He was killed in action during World War II at Normandy. On October 1, 1946 she married Ray Thomas in Greeley. Mrs. Thomas enjoyed being a homemaker and after her children were in school, she began working as a secretary at the Greeley Chamber of Commerce and the Greeley Medical Lab. Isabelle and Ray shared many wonderful years together and especially enjoyed traveling together after retirement. Ray passed away August 9, 2003. Isabelle was an avid reader until she lost her eyesight. During that time she discovered the "Talking Book” program at the library and was able to continue her love of reading. Her favorite times were spent with her grandchildren whom she dearly loved. She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother and a dear friend. Mrs. Thomas is survived by two sons, Philip B. Tallman and wife Susan of Danville, VT, and Gerald N. Thomas and wife Faye of Rio Vista, CA; three grandchildren, William B. Tallman of Greeley, Sarah J. Tallman of Lakewood, CO, and Sabrina Thomas of Davis, CA; and a great grandson, Evan Thomas also of Davis, CA. She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, and two brothers, Clarence "Mac” McNeil and Clifford McNeil. A service celebrating her life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 6, 2009 at the Eaton Cemetery in Eaton, Colorado. Memorial contributions may be made to the Colorado Talking Book Program in care of Adamson Funeral & Cremation Services, 2000 47th Avenue Greeley, CO 80634.