Geraldine "Gerry" Thomas, 83 of Batesville passed away Tuesday, October 7, 2014, in Batesville. She was born September 27, 1931 in Catalpa, Arkansas to Joseph Elmer Dewberry and Floy Myrtle Vaught Dewberry. She retired from Batesville Junior High School where she pioneered the "Career Orientation" curriculum. During that time she received numerous awards, including Region IV Educator of the Year and Teacher of the Year. In addition, she served as a board member for the Arkansas Vocational Association, and was presented the Outstanding Educator award in the "New and Related" curriculum division. She was a member of the Central Avenue United Methodist Church for 44 years. During that time she served as youth leader, Sunday School teacher, was a member of the United Methodist Women Ambassador's Circle, and served on numerous committees. She was very active in the Women's Bowling Association where she served as both secretary and president. In 2002, she was inducted into the Batesville Women's Bowling Association Hall of Fame. In 2007, she won the title of "Ms. Hollywood Bowl". In her spare time she was an avid reader, loved to crochet, and spent countless hours watching her hummingbirds and enjoying her rose garden. During her lifetime she touched the lives of many and was affectionately known as "Momma T". She was an inspiration to all those who met her whether it was encouraging them to pursue their education, win their fight against cancer, or grow in their spiritual endeavors. Survivors include her husband of 63 years, Roy Gerald Thomas of the home; her daughter, Susan Thomas Toups and husband, Robert of Duplessis, LA; her daughter-in-law, Amanda Crosby Thomas of Batesville and two grandchildren, Jackson Thomas and Claire Thomas. She is preceded in death by her parents; her infant son, Charles Elmer Thomas, her son James Andrew "Andy" Thomas, and two brothers. A celebration of life service will be held at Central Avenue United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 18, 2014, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Geraldine Thomas Scholarship Fund at UACCB, Central Avenue United Methodist Church Elevator Fund, the Batesville Relay for Life, or a charity of your choice. Arrangements by Willis Funeral Service www.willisfs.com