Ann was born on May 6, 1927 in Mansfield, Ohio, and has spent her entire life here. She was the first person in Mansfield to earn, from the National Association of Roller Skaters, a bronze medal for her excellence in dance skating at the Mansfield Roller Rink. While working at the W. T. Grant Company store in Mansfield, she was married and when her husband was stationed in Atlanta, Georgia she transferred to the store in Atlanta to be with him. She ultimately returned to the Mansfield store and worked there until she started to raise her family. She was a member of the First Christian Church of Mansfield and served as a leader of the Chi-Rho youth group in the 60’s and later as a Diaconate. She was an active member of the Richland County Republican Women’s Club as well as the Richland County Republican Party for over twenty years and was often praised for her work in helping fellow republicans in their quest for public services. She was very active in the Band Parents Clubs, the PTA, and many other school functions during the years her children were in school. Her participation in these activities as well as her strong desire to help her two children to become good citizens was rewarded by the final result of how her children have furthered their lives. Her primary enjoyments, following the raising of her children has been her crafts, decorating and playing cards with her many friends.
Ann is survived by her one daughter and son-in-law, Diane and Dave Kinton of Pataskala; one son, Steve Thomas of Ontario; grandchildren, Travis and Lauren Thomas, Tyler and Teia Thomas, and Tricia and Chris Brown; six great-grandchildren and one on the way; one brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Wanda Augustine of Mansfield and Helen Augustine.
Ann was preceded in death by her husband, John Thomas of over sixty years; her parents, Frank and Rafina Augustine; five brothers, Michael, Anthony, Joseph, James and Dominic; six sisters, Mary Colarosa, Florance Forwith, Catherine Vogt, Jenny Krichbaum, Rose Augustine, and Ester Williams.
Family and friends may gather from 5:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at Wappner Funeral Directors-Mansfield, 98 S. Diamond Street. She will be laid to rest in Mansfield Cemetery at a later date.
