HERRIN, Ill. -- Eva Thomas, 93, of Herrin died Tuesday, May 4, 1999, at Shawnee Christian Nursing Home.

She was born June 16, 1905, in Herrin, daughter of James and Margaret Ellis Joe. She married Edward Thomas, who died in 1974.

Formerly of Cairo, Thomas was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, charter member of Cairo VFW Auxiliary, Order of Eastern Star, and White Shrine of Jerusalem.

Survivors include two sons, John Thomas of Herrin, William Thomas of Indianapolis, Ind.; two sisters, Sara Joe of Cairo, Ester Mulder of Las Vegas, Nev.; eight grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by four sisters and two brothers.

Private graveside service will be held at a later date at Green Lawn Memorial Gardens in Villa Ridge. The Rev. Jerome Fortenberry will officiate.

Barkett Funeral Home in Cairo is in charge of arrangements.