Claudia Clarice Marie Thomas

Claudia Clarice Marie Thomas, 64, Ora, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family Saturday, May 29, 2021.

She was born June 2, 1956, in Chicago, Ill. to the late Virgil and Elvira [Wiler] Newton. Claudia graduated from Argos High School in Argos. Although Claudia didn’t attend college directly after high school, she took the time she needed to raise her children.

Later in life, she went on to pursue her own professional goals by getting her Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Ancilla College and her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Indiana Institute of Technology. She was currently employed at Advocacy Links as a case manager.

Claudia dedicated her life to helping others. She genuinely embodied the Advocacy Links mission statement of advocating for people who needed help, connecting people to fiscally responsible resources, and respecting everyone in the process. This is true both in her professional and personal life.

Claudia enjoyed the outdoors, especially bird and butterfly watching as well as gardening. She also enjoyed reading. Claudia was an avid horse racing fan and always looked forward to the annual trip she took to the Sulky Horse Races in Anderson.

Most of all, Claudia adored her family and loved cooking for them and having everyone in her home for gatherings. She will be deeply missed by so many.

She is survived by her husband, Mitchell; sons: Calvert (Kyri) Quimby, Talma; Cassidy (Dawn) Quimby, Argos; daughters: Criston (Scott) Zehner, Monterey; Layla Thomas, Ora; step-daughter, Jessica Thomas, Winimac; 15 grandchildren; 1 great-grandson; many nieces and nephews; her former husband, Stanley (Susan) Quimby, South Bend.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers and two sisters.

Funeral Services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, June 3, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, with Pastor Dana Neer officiating. Visitation will be from 2-7 p.m. Thursday, June 3, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac.

Memorial Contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.