Christine Eirceal Thomas

Christine Eirceal Thomas

July 29, 1928 – September 25, 2026

Christine Eirceal Thomas, affectionately known as Nana, transitioned from this life on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the age of 98.

Christine was born July 29, 1928, in Madison, IL to Squire and Nealie Clemons. She was the second of three children, growing up alongside her brother, Squire Clemons Jr., and sister, Athel Clemons Davis. The daughter of a minister, Christine was raised in the church and gave her life to Christ at an early age.

As a young adult, Christine came to Minnesota to visit extended family and decided to make St. Paul her home. There, she built a life with her husband, Herbert Thomas, and together they raised six children. When Herbert became ill, Christine was his devoted caregiver for many years, remaining by his side until his passing.

Christine worked for Control Data until her retirement. She later spent several years working with children through the YWCA's after-school and childcare programs and was a regular presence at the daycare operated by her daughter Diane. Her special connection with children meant that, over the years, "Nana" became a name used not only by generations of her own family, but by many others whose lives she touched.

Faith was the foundation of Christine's life. In 1958, she recommitted her life to Christ as an adult, beginning a renewed walk with the Lord that shaped the remainder of her life. Her faith was not reserved for Sundays. She believed God's Word was meant to be studied, lived, shared—and taken seriously.

Christine served Gospel Temple under the leadership of Rev. Walter Battle for 13 years. She later joined Rev. Dr. Robert Graham at Peace Tabernacle, where she served faithfully for 32 years. In her final season of church service, she worshiped and served at Resurrection Temple under the leadership of Pastors Kevin and Aretta Johnson.

Throughout the years, Christine served her church as a secretary, finance leader, radio announcer, choir member, treasurer, and deaconess, but she was perhaps most beloved as a Sunday School teacher. She loved teaching God's Word and helping others understand how to apply it to their lives.

Christine loved to read, travel, spend time with family, and work on jigsaw puzzles. She was also passionate about "eating to live" and was always ready to share a recipe, natural remedy, or bit of wisdom with someone she thought could benefit.

Christine loved her family deeply and showed that love through her presence, sacrifice, guidance, and willingness to tell you the truth—whether you asked for it or not. Nana believed choices had consequences, the Bible had answers, and she was rarely shy about reminding you of either. Above all, she wanted those she loved to know the Lord and understand that how they lived mattered.

Christine was preceded in death by her parents, Squire and Nealie Clemons; her husband Herbert Thomas; her brother Squire Clemons Jr.; her sons Dwight and Curtis Thomas; her grandson Quest Mazique Sr.; and her daughters-in-law Nina Clemons and Jacqueline Thomas.

She leaves to cherish her memory her sister, Athel Clemons Davis; her children A. Demetrius Clemons and his wife, Elsie; Clyde Thomas; Marsha Mazique; and Diane Cotton; her daughter-in-law Susan Thomas; generations of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, friends, and others who knew and loved her as Nana.

Christine's 98 years were a testament to faith, perseverance, service, family, and a life lived with conviction. Her voice, her lessons, and her unwavering faith will remain with the generations who follow her.

Celebration of Life

Tuesday, October 13, 2026 Battle Temple (formerly Gospel Temple)247 Grotto St. N., St. Paul, MN 55104

Visitation: 10:00–11:00 a.m. Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment will follow at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.