Mary Ellen Thomas

Mary Ellen Thomas (née Nicholson) of Ingomar, PA passed away peacefully at the age of 101 on March 6, 2025. Born on February 10, 1924, to Clyde and Margaret (Brown) Nicholson in Brookline, PA., Mary Ellen lived a wonderful life full of love, laughter, and community involvement. She was a devout Catholic and member of St. Alexis Catholic Church in McCandless. She was known for her warm personality and willingness to help others.

Mary Ellen married Raymond C. Thomas in 1951, and they shared 52 years of marriage before his death in 2003. Together they raised five sons, creating a loving and supportive family environment. Their strong partnership and dedication to their children were evident in the many activities they shared as a family.

Before her marriage, Mary Ellen led an exciting and accomplished life. She toured the country and performed with the renowned Ice Capades. Her talent and poise were also recognized when she was crowned Miss Pittsburgh in the National Queen of the Ice contest in Hollywood, CA in 1942.

Mary Ellen’s multifaceted life was filled with accomplishments, hobbies, and a deep commitment to her family and community. She was an active member of the Pittsburgh Figure Skating Club and contributed to her community through her involvement with the New Century Club of Ingomar. In addition to her public achievements, Mary Ellen had a rich array of personal interests and a great artistic vision. She played both the violin and organ and was a member of the North Hills Hammond Organ Club. She was also an excellent seamstress and loved creating clothing for her family and won awards for her clothing designs. Mary Ellen also enjoyed a variety of outdoor activities such as gardening and walking her beloved dogs, and she had a great love for hands-on projects with her crafts and ceramics.

Mary Ellen is survived by her five sons: David (Kathy) of Concord Twp., OH; Richard (Anne) of Mooresville, NC; Donald (Lori) of Ingomar; Gary (Theresa) of Ingomar; and Robert of West Palm Beach, FL. She is also survived by eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by and her brothers, John Nicholson, James Nicholson, and Richard Nicholson.

Mary Ellen will be deeply missed by her loving family and her memories will be cherished forever in their hearts. A private memorial service will be held for her family on March 13th. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date.