Dora Ruth Thomas

Dora Ruth (Lyles) Thomas was born on November 28, 1928 in Yantley, Alabama. The beloved daughter of the late Bertha (Ruffin) and John Lyles, she entered into enternal rest in Christ on Monday, May 20, 2013 at Drake Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. Dora Ruth lived in Meridian, Mississippi until she moved to Cincinnati, Ohio at the age of thirteen. Upon her arrival, she was educated at the “old” Woodward High School as well as Poro Hair School. Giving her life to Jesus Christ at an early age, she became a member of New Hope Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. John W. Stephenson where she was a faithful member and Deaconess Emeritus until her passing.

Dora Ruth was joined in holy matrimony to Willie E. Thomas, Sr. in 1953; four daughters and two sons were born to this union. Dora Ruth, a dedicated mother, took on the role of a single parent after the death of her husband. She worked diligently at Model Laundry and The Shirt Laundry to provide for her children. She was a dedicated employee of the Frisch’s Corporation until she retired after more than twenty years of service.

Dora Ruth, affectionately known as “Mother Thomas” to many, was an avid fan of the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals, as well as daytime television programs – especially The Young and the Restless. Despite rearing six children on her own, Dora Ruth always opened her home to anyone who needed a good meal or a place to stay. She was well known for her love of family, quick wit, and culinary skills. Her collard greens, potato salad, and homemade pies were staples at family gatherings.

Dora Ruth is preceded in death by her husband Willie E. Thomas, Sr., parents Bertha (Ruffin) and John Lyles, sisters Ella Louise Palmer (James) and Velma Orange, brothers Clifford Lyles, Johnny Lyles, stepson George “C.B.” Thomas and grandson Christopher Michael-Anthony Thomas.

Dora Ruth was extremely proud of all the accomplishments and achievements of her children and grandchildren. She leaves to carry on her legacy and cherish her memory six children: Elaine L. Webb (Thomas), Denise Thomas, Willie E. Thomas, Jr. (Leslie), Venita Ruth Thomas, Gregory Thomas, and Ella Thomas, five grandchildren whom she adored: George Thomas, Traice Webb-Bradley (Stefan), Keli Webb, Caleb Thomas, and Noah Thomas, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friends.