Eunice A. F. Thomas (Friend)

Eunice Areatha Friend, was born on March 5, 1932, to the late Russell Friend and Mary Viola Simpson, in Preston, Maryland. She went to be with her Heavenly Father the evening of January 4, 2020. Eunice was the sixth of seven children, five of whom preceded her in death; Denard Friend, Susanna Morris, Wesley Friend, Roberta Hayes and Ruth Thomas. Eunice was educated in the Caroline County Educational System and graduated from Lockerman High School, in 1949, a member of the “49ers”. Upon graduation, Eunice went to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and attended Berean Institute, where she received an Associates Degree. She also acquired her Real Estate License from Goldey Beacom College. Eunice’s employment history included various substitute teaching positions in Maryland, before moving to New Castle County, Delaware. Once in Delaware, Eunice worked for Community Action of Greater Wilmington. Eunice began her employment with New Castle County Head Start in 1965, and worked until she retired in 1995. In 1996, New Castle County Head Start proclaimed that the Employee of the Year Award will be named the Eunice A. Thomas Employee of the Year Award, in honor of her 30 years of outstanding and dedicated service. Eunice was also honored with a Senate tribute from the State of Delaware, for 30 years of distinguished service to the children of Delaware. Eunice was the author of two books, both published: Superfluous Joy (a story of the Friend and Simpson family) and a book of poems. She enjoyed reading, writing, watching her “stories” and loving her family. Eunice was a loving, compassionate fair woman of God. In Delaware, Eunice was an active member of Ezion-Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church. Upon moving back “home” She became an active member of Mt. Calvary United Methodist church in Preston, Maryland, serving on various committees. Eunice married the love her life, her high school sweetheart, Leon Wesley Thomas. From this union, one child was born, Barbara Thomas (Norma Sharpe), whom she leaves to cherish her memory, along with four grandchildren; godchildren; brother, Ellsworth Friend; sister-in-law, Joanne Murray; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She will be deeply and forever missed.

Eunice A. F. Thomas (Friend)

March 5, 1932 - January 4, 2020