Marie Ellen Willis Thomas died peacefully on December 29, 2018 at the age of 86. Born in Guernsey County, Ohio on October 8, 1932 in a home her father built, she was the daughter of the late John Russell and Glenna Stevens Willis. Marie lived a life of service to others. She spent her childhood and early adult life in Ohio where she graduated from Greenville High School before attending Miami University where she received both Bachelor of Science and Master degrees in Education. She put these degrees to wonderful use by enriching the lives of hundreds of students during her 34-year teaching career – starting with 13 years teaching the First Grade before graduating to the Second Grade for her remaining years before retiring in 1994. She was the consummate teaching professional, winning Teacher of the Year in 1978, and being blessed over the years with many former students reconnecting with her to express their appreciation for her positive influence on their early lives. She was a charter member of Spring Valley Presbyterian Church in 1977 and since served as an Elder, Sunday School Superintendent, Circle Leader, Bazaar Co-Chair, etc. She also spent many years volunteering in local hospitals. Marie enjoyed traveling, playing cards with others, and working puzzles. Most of all she enjoyed her family and large group of wonderful friends.

She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 65 years, Dewight E. Thomas, daughter Debbie and her husband Chuck Beam, son Steve and his wife Susan, and her brother Dr. Craig Willis. In addition, she is survived by her four grandchildren and their families – Chris and wife Amanda Beam, Abbey Beam, Katie Beam and husband Kyle Miller and Laura Beth Thomas and husband Michael McClendon – and three greatgrandchildren – Mason Miller, Madelyn Beam and Amelia Beam.

A funeral service will be held at 12:30 o'clock, Thursday, January 3rd, at Spring Valley Presbyterian Church, 125 Sparkleberry Ln, Columbia, followed by interment at the Fort Jackson National Cemetery at 2 o'clock.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 o'clock Wednesday evening at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext, Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Spring Valley Presbyterian Church, 125 Sparkleberry Lane, Columbia, SC, 29229.