Lawrene Thomas uses special talents to benefit others

Lawrene Thomas has made it a priority to give back to her community. Helping others has been important throughout her life.

Some might say that Thomas was taught this special quality by her loving grandmother. Born in Stotesbury, MO, Thomas’ grandmother reared her and her two younger siblings after their mother passed away.

Thomas was 5 years old when she lost her mother.

“Grandma was our angel,” said Thomas. “She never raised her voice at us and she never complained.”

On countless occasions, her grandmother would tell Thomas and her siblings how much she enjoyed raising them.

When Thomas was...