CATHLEEN THOM

OF your charity please pray for the repose of the soul of Mary Cathleen Thom, of Clayton-le-Moors, who passed away peacefully in hospital with her daughter by her side on Sunday, December 1, fortified by the rites of Holy Mother Church, aged 91.

Cathleen, as she was known, was the devoted wife of the late Alan, much loved and loving mother of Laraine, dear motherin-law of Philip, cherished grandma of Catherine, Ema and Christopher, great-grandma of Mikey and Sophie and dear sister of Annie.

Cathleen was Clayton born and bred and always remained devoted to her home town.

Her working life began aged just fourteen at Moorfield colliery as a trainee cook and from there she worked at various places in the kitchens.

She was an amazing cook and wherever she worked she was always a popular member of the working team.

She was a staunch member of the Labour party from the age of seventeen, working hard for the party and giving much of her spare time to them.

Cathleen became councillor, county councillor and Mayor for the borough and later was made Alderman of the borough.

Throughout her life Cathleen has helped many people, becoming a well respected pillar of the community.

At home Cathleen loved to read and could often be found enjoying her latest book, she enjoyed jigsaws and trips to the theatre with family and friends and she learnt to swim in her seventies.

Cathleen always looked forward to getting away on holiday to her favourite destination Ireland with her sister and friend.

Donations are being received in memory of Cathleen on behalf of Nightsafe.

A Requiem Mass will be celebrated in St Mary’s RC Church, Clayton-le-Moors on Monday, December 16 at 11.30am followed by committal at Accrington Crematorium.

Funeral director: Champ Funeral Services, Clayton-le-Moors.