Ellen M. Thomas

Ellen Marie Hix Thomas, 85, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of love, grace, and quiet strength.

Born on May 14, 1939, in Galesburg, she was the beloved daughter of John Erastus “Wimpy” Hix and Velda Marie (Glasgow) Seitz. She was preceded in death by her parents, her cherished brother John P. “Phil” Hix, and her dear son, Michael E. Thomas Jr.

Ellen’s life was centered around family. A devoted mother, she dedicated her early years to raising her children with warmth, wisdom, and care. Later, with characteristic determination, she returned to school to earn her GED, became a licensed nurse, and went on to achieve her medical assistant certification. She served the Galesburg community with compassion, working at several local nursing homes including St. Mary’s Square and Cottonwood. She found special joy in caring for the elderly, embracing the field of geriatrics with a deep and abiding heart.

She is survived by her children: Melissa (Pete) Kehoe of Galesburg, IL; Kelly (Ronald) Poyner of Galesburg, IL; Daughter In Law Mary Theesfeld Thomas and James H. Thomas of Tucson, AZ. Ellen was a proud and loving grandmother to eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

Ellen had a deep appreciation for the simple, beautiful moments in life. She treasured the quiet peace of sunrise and the renewing spirit of spring. Her love of flowers—especially lilies of the valley, peonies, and violets—reflected her gentle soul. An enthusiastic cook and avid collector of recipes, she delighted in hosting tea parties with carefully chosen linens and freshly picked violets adorning each place setting.

A voracious reader, Ellen was particularly fond of historical romances, losing herself in stories that spanned generations and places. In her early retirement years, she enjoyed traveling to visit dear friends in North Carolina and Florida. In later years, she found companionship and laughter with her treasured "Girl Group," exploring restaurants and creating memories throughout the region.

Ellen’s life was one of quiet purpose, enduring love, and elegant grace. She touched many lives with her kindness and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Cremation has been accorded. Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 23, 2025 at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg. Anyone wishing to process to the cemetery, please meet at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, by 10:30 a.m. A picnic and celebration of life will be held in July. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Carl Sandburg Nursing Program. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.