Therese Thomas
Therese “Moel” Thomas peacefully left this world one week before her 87th birthday with her loving goddaughter, Nori Slater (Love) by her side.
Born in Rusk County, Texas, to Wilma Gartman and Asbury Lawrence Burt Heaton, Moel grew up in Grand Prairie, Texas with her sister, Sondra, who married James Parker. All who predeceased Moel.
Moel’s adventurous spirit took her to Washington, D.C., where she excelled as a dance instructor at Arthur Murray Dance Center. She met and married Ronnie Edwards, and together they competed professionally in dance, achieving great success while welcoming their three children, Ron’ee, Jennine, and Keith. Though Moel and Ronnie later divorced, she remained a distant devoted mother.
Moel is survived by her daughter, Ron’ee, her husband, Paul, their daughter Ashley Lemanski, her daughter Jennine, her husband, Mickey, their children, Michael, his wife, Olivia, Richard and Victoria Hale, her son, Keith, his wife, Catherine, their children, Allison, Jacque, and “JJ” John Joseph. Moel cherished a long and meaningful relationship with Charlie Wallace, who she considered her spiritual brother, and her chosen goddaughter, Nori Slater (Love).
Moel was predeceased by her grandson, Vincent, and her son, Keith.
Devoting her life to the study of theology, religion, and the Bible, Moel had a long career as a psychiatric spiritual counselor. A Carmelite Contemplative, she dedicated her life to knowing God better and living a full life in constant pursuit of spiritual growth.
In 1996, Moel was Chrismated into the Holy Eastern Orthodox Church and spent many years in Maryland before moving to Florida. Her marriage to John Thomas, a Methodist pastor, brought her to Berkeley Springs many years ago where she met and became lifelong friends with Peg (Margaret) Perry.
Moel returned to Berkeley Springs to spend her final years. She was cared for at home by a host of private caregivers from MTB Consulting and Berkeley Springs Healthcare Center, prior to Nori bringing her home where she had a time of rehabbing and liveliness before gearing down for her gentle final months. Moel held a special place in her heart for her caregiver and friend, Kathy Morgan.
Nori Slater, on behalf of Moel, extend their gratitude to Dr. Andrew Berens for his years of trusted care, and The Hospice of the Panhandle for their excellent care in ensuring Moel’s comfort and dignity as she went home to be with Jesus. Special gratitude to Glenna, RN.
A Life Celebration will be planned and invitations will be forthcoming when details are complete.
“To live in hearts we leave behind, is not to die.” – Joseph Campbell.
Communication, remembrance or Mass cards may be sent to PO Box 476, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.helsleyjohnsonfh.com.
Arrangements are being handled by Helsley-Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 95 Union Street, Berkeley Springs, WV.
