In Loving Memory
RJ
Reta Jean Thurber
November 18, 1929 — April 24, 2026
It is with heavy hearts and profound love that the family of Reta Jean Thurber announces her peaceful passing at Tideview Terrace on [Date of Passing], at the age of 93. Born on November 18, 1929, in Riverdale, Reta was the cherished daughter of the late Leroy and Lizzie Belle (Mullen) Wagner.
Reta was a beacon of warmth, love, and joy to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey through life was marked by her dedication to family, her passion for teaching, and her unwavering faith. Reta began her career as an inspiring educator, touching the lives of young minds in Danvers, Bear River, and Brier Island. Her commitment to learning and nurturing others was a testament to her generous spirit.
On October 5, 1950, Reta married the love of her life, Raymond Percy Thurber, with whom she shared 59 beautiful years. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and music. Their cottage was a sanctuary for family and friends, where sing-songs and shared stories echoed through the walls, leaving behind treasured memories and guest books brimming with signatures from far and wide.
Reta's life was enriched by her membership in the Fair Isle Rebecca Lodge and the Freeport Baptist Church, where her faith and fellowship were a source of strength and community. She was a creative soul, finding joy in crafts, solving jigsaw puzzles, and spending afternoons indulging in her favorite TV game shows.
Reta was predeceased by her beloved husband, Raymond, as well as her brothers Nevins, Ken, and Darrell Wagner, and her sisters Erma Kaminski, Hilda Morehouse, Althea Saunders, Melba Morehouse, and Carol Hall. She was also predeceased by her daughter-in-law, Marjorie.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness in her surviving family: her sons James (Valda), Chris (Phyllis), Randy (Barbara), Jeff (Barbara), Derek (Crissy), and her daughter Angela. Her memory will also be cherished by her grandchildren Cory, Ian, Jillian (Darin) Orde, Carolyn (Mitchell) Dewares, and Michael (Keri), and her great-grandchildren Peyton & Cash Gillis, Emma & Ryan Dewares, and Samuel & Lucas Thurber. Reta is also fondly remembered by her sisters Vivian Cossaboom and Myrtle Theriault.
Reta's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and caregivers at Tideview Terrace for their compassionate care and support during her final days.
A celebration of Reta's life will be held at [Location] on [Date], where family and friends will gather to honor a life well-lived, sharing stories of love, laughter, and the indelible mark she left on each of us. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to [Charity or Cause].
Reta Jean Thurber's life was a testament to the power of love, community, and faith. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace.