RAYMOND Terrace local and volunteer of many organisations, Mrs Francis “Min” Thomas was farewelled last week.

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At 105 years of age, Mrs Thomas lived an interesting life.

She was born 11 March, 1913 in Wallasey, England and passed away on 6 July, 2018 in Raymond Terrace, Australia.

Having been born in 1913, Min was old enough to have remembered the end of World War I, live through the Great Depression, experienced World War II as an adult, and been witness to many other world events in her life time.

Min’s list of volunteer activities is commendable.

She was a foundation member of the Probus Club and served as its treasurer for 18 years, was the first cook at the local Meals on Wheels, and served office for the Tomago Ladies Bowling Club.

She is also remembered as being the cook at the Raymond Terrace Bowling Club for many years.

Min’s grandson, Mr Tony Pereira told News Of The Area, “Nanna was a very strong woman with a dry and sharp wit.”

“When confronted with the need for major surgery at the ripe age of 99, she ‘told’ the surgeon to find an anaesthetist who would assist; nothing would stand between her and that letter from the Queen.”

Indeed Min did receive her letter from the Queen when she turned 100.

Representatives from Min’s Probus Club recollected her time at the Club, and she was still attending functions in 2017, telling News Of The Area, “Min was a passionate foundation Probus Member from 1986 and later on becoming a Life Member.”

“We were fortunate to have Min with us to celebrate the 31st anniversary of the Club together with Min’s 104th birthday in March, 2017 where she was presented with a Birthday Certificate from Ms Meryl Swanson, MP.”

Min lived independently at home, something she was proud of, and it was also the first and only home Min and her husband had lived in since arriving in Australia in 1952.

Min had married Cecil Thomas in 1942 during the height of World War II.

The late Mr Thomas served in Africa as part of the British Armed Forces.

Min is survived by her loving family: two children, two grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.

Vale Min.

By Heather SHARP