Deborah Thomas

Deborah Ann Thomas, 64, of Atlantic, Iowa, and formerly of Ottumwa, Iowa, died October 20, 2016, at her home.

She was born June 27, 1952, in Brookfield, MO to Robert Wayne and Alta Mae Rauer Thomas.

A 1970 graduate of Ottumwa High School, she earned a B.A. from the University of Iowa. Deborah taught in the Lost Nation school system 9 years and 24 years at Atlantic High School, retiring in 2009. She taught English and was the Drama, Speech and Debate coach.

Deborah was an avid reader, loved traveling, loved her animals and was a strong advocate for animal rights.

Surviving are her parents, Robert and Alta Thomas of Ottumwa, Iowa.

Per her wishes, her body has been cremated.

Memorial services will be 1:00 p.m. Monday, October 31, 2016, at the First United Methodist Church in Ottumwa, Iowa, with Rev. Jon Disburg officiating.

Visitation with the family present will be one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heartland Humane Society, PO Box 1149, Ottumwa, IA 52501.

Reece Funeral Home in Ottumwa, Iowa, is in charge of the memorial arrangements. Hockenberry Family Care in Atlantic, Iowa, assisted Reece Funeral Home and Deborah's family.