THOMAS, FLORENCE M. - The death of Florence Mae (Middleton) Thomas of Saint John, NB, occurred on Friday, April 12, 2002 at the Saint John Regional Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. Wife of the late Bruce Thomas, she was born in Saint John, March 23, 1920 where she resided all her life near Haymarket Square. The last 39 years residing at Courtenay Place. The daughter of the late Albert and Mabel (Saunders) Middleton. A graduate of the Lady Dunn Trade School, St. Andrews, NB, graduating June 21, 1973 with a certificate in Dressmaking. Employed at Holiday Inn, Calp's and pursued her career by teaching sewing classes in her home, her sewing talents were admired and appreciated by her many friends and patrons. Christmas was her favorite time, trimming of the house, buying and wrapping of gifts for others, her home was her whole world and she was always changing the décor. She will be greatly missed by the many she befriended as her door was always open to the young and adults alike, her generosity will be remembered, as will her concern for others even when she was very ill. Florence is survived by two sons Richard (Rose-Anna) and Ralph (Ann) Thomas both of Saint John, one daughter Beverley (Kevin) Cribbs of Michigan, USA, special grand-daughter Cheryl Thomas, chosen daughter Marlene Howe, chosen son Michael Merritt, special friend of many years Dorothy Munro, nanny to Tina, Jolene, Michael, Jeffry, Joel, Karen and Keith, several great-grandchildren, one great -great grandchild , cousins, nieces and nephews. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family. She is predeceased by one brother Roy Middleton. By request there will be no visiting or funeral service. Following cremation interment will take place in Cedar Hill Extension Cemetery. Remembrances may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the charity of the donors choice. Arrangements are under the care of Brenan's Select Community Funeral Home 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (506-634-7424). www.brenansfh.com