It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Mary E. Thomas, a beloved wife, sister, and friend, who departed this life peacefully on August 12, 2026, at the age of 77. The daughter of William Oree Jr & Annie L (Cofield) Oree, Mary was born February 16, 1949, in Youngstown, Ohio, and carried with her the rich legacy of her hometown throughout her life.

As the founder of Kids 4 Christ, Mary loved children and it was reciprocal. She was a very hospitable hostess to guests in her home. She loved her family and friends but was respected for her non-nonsense approach.

Mary leaves cherished memories with her devoted husband Rev. Laray Thomas of Cincinnati, son Anthony Martin of North Carolina; stepson Anthony Thomas of Cincinnati. Precious memories will be retained by her sisters Phillis Brewer of Niles and Gloria draper of South Carolina.

Her legacy will be sustained by her grandson Desmond Martin and three great children, along with a host of relatives and friends which include very devoted friend Lura Green and beloved cousin Carolyn Alli.

As Mary’s faith became sight, she was reunited with her parents, daughter Antoinette “Terri” Brown and siblings Sandra Oree-Mitchel, Babrbara Oree-Owens, Elizabeth Oree and William Oree III.

In honor of Mary’s life, a funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Phillips Memorial Baptist Church, 1407 Victor Ave, Youngstown with Pastor Larry Alexander officiating. A public viewing will take place at the same location from 10:00 AM until the start of the service, allowing family and friends to gather in support and remembrance of a remarkable woman. Services will also be live streamed on the Facebook of J.E. Washington Funeral Services.

Following the committal ceremony, service, Mary will be laid to rest among the serene estates of Tod Homestead Cemetery, where her memory will be forever cherished. Mary E. Thomas will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love her. May she rest in eternal peace.

For a caring farewell, at this time of intimate need and personal loss, the Mary E. Thomas family elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave, Youngstown, OH 44511 330.782.8500