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April 29, 1927-March 2, 2024

Elinor, a beloved soul who graced this world with her presence for 96 years, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2024. She was born on April 29, 1927, in Antioch, California to Grover and Jessie Thomas.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband, David and her former husband of 33 years, Russell Williams. Also preceding her were her father, Grover Thomas and mother Jessie Thomas of Bartlett, Ohio, her brothers Neil Thomas of Bartlett and Gordon Thomas of Angwin, California, her grandson Troy Reynolds of Parksville, Kentucky.
Elinor enjoyed her profession as a beautician in the Niles area after attending Vogue Beauty College and later pursued a Nursing degree at Southwestern Michigan College.
Her spiritual journey was the cornerstone of her life, as she was an active member of the Niles Westside Seventh-day Adventist Church in Niles. Elinor’s faith was not merely a belief but a guiding force that shaped her actions and interactions with others. She served her community with boundless compassion.
She is survived by her daughter, Phyllis (William) Shupp, her granddaughter, Machelle (Rodney) Vietz, a granddaughter Nicolle Valles, a great-granddaughter Jessie Vietz and a great-grandson, Nathan Vietz.
Possessing a gift for artistry, she delighted many in expressing herself through painting. She also enjoyed playing piano. Self-taught, she entertained many by playing renditions of her favorite hymns and music from the 1940s.
Her love for God was her guiding light that illuminated her path. Her life was her testament to her faith, as she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to serving God through her involvement in the church choir, church leadership, and volunteerism in community services.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Niles Fairview Seventh-day Adventist Church School, 110 N. Fairview Avenue, Niles, Michigan 49120.
Photos, condolences can be left for Elinor’s family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com
A Memorial Service in honor of Elinor will be held on April 28, 2024, at 11 a.m., at the Niles Westside Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 1105 Grant St. Niles, MI 49120.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.