Margaret Louise Thomas

She was born in Wilmington DE on March 29, 1939. She is preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Thomas, parents, Henry A. and Mary B. Gerstenberg, her brother, Henry Gerstenberg and her sisters, Gerry Gerstenberg and Patricia O’Connor.

Ms. Thomas graduated from the University of Delaware and went on to work for Joseph Bancroft & Sons, Inc. and later was Assistant Director and Teacher at Georgetown Hill Early School.

While she loved working with children, she also enjoyed traveling; and visited all 7 continents. She loved animals and especially appreciated the wildlife on safari during her trip to Africa.

For the last several years, she entertained and delighted seniors as an “Asbury Clown”. She enjoyed volunteering her time wrapping gifts for special parties held for the seniors at Asbury Methodist Village. In past years, she also fostered and assisted with the transport of rescue dogs.

Ms. Thomas is survived by her children, Garret Brereton, Amy Ardolina (Russ), and stepchildren, Raymond Thomas, Karen Custer (and the late Jerry Custer), Hilary Thomas and Bruce Thomas (Judy) along with 7 step-grandchildren, Erica Thomas and Rachel Thomas (daughter of Sally), Cris Zocchi (Joe), Ben Custer (Shannon), Matthew Thomas, Samuel Thomas, Katie Thomas, 4 step-great-grandchildren, Greg Zocchi, Michaela Zocchi, William Custer and Claire Custer along with several beloved nieces, nephews and her dear dog and kitty.

The family will receive friends during a casual memorial visitation on Friday, November 13, 2026 at De Vol Funeral Home at 10 East Deer Park Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20877. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Margaret Louise Thomas’ name in memory to the Montgomery County Humane Society at mchumane.org.