Lucille Claire (Thomas) McIntyre

Lucille Claire (Thomas) McIntyre, 91, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of her children and their families—just as she had spent her life surrounding them with hers.

Born on September 16, 1934, in Dunlap, Iowa, she was the cherished daughter of Ernest and Wilhelmina (Herwig) Thomas. She graduated from Dunlap High School in 1952 and soon began working at Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company. It was there that fate gently intervened, placing a young man from Ashtabula, James McIntyre, just around the corner from her desk—a simple beginning to a lifelong love story.

On May 26, 1956, Lucille married Jim, and together they built a life rooted in unwavering devotion, laughter, and deep companionship. Their greatest pride and joy came in the form of their children and, later, their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. To Lucille, family was never just part of her life—it was her life. She gave her love freely, completely, and unconditionally, creating a home where everyone felt valued, supported, and deeply cared for.

Lucille found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—tending to her garden, exploring her interests in ancient history and geology, and especially sharing moments of creativity and play with her grandchildren. Her years as a classroom teacher’s aide at Station Street Elementary reflected her natural warmth and patience, but nothing brought her more fulfillment than being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She and Jim often said they were the lucky ones to have such a family, though those who knew them understood that it was Lucille who made that family so strong, so close, and so full of love.

She is survived by her devoted children: her daughters, Kathy McIntyre and Patty White of Ashtabula; and Karen (Joe) Armeni of North Kingsville; and her sons, James “Rob” (Chris) McIntyre of Ashtabula; and Mark (Rhonda) McIntyre of Monroe Township. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren—Lindsay (Matt) Patterson, Krystyn (James) Yunker, Jenna LaVecchia, James (Amanda) Armeni, Alyssa (Julian) McIntyre, Emma (Miles) McIntyre, and Ian McIntyre —along with eight treasured great-grandchildren, and many dear nieces and nephews, all of whom carry forward her legacy of love.

Lucille was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, James, in 2017; her daughters, Dianne (Ned) Lyons in 2017 and Teresa (Tim) Sweeney in 2022; and her siblings, Lola Capocia, Evelyn Schack, and Dean Thomas.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, at Czup Funeral Home, 1329 Lake Ave., Ashtabula. Calling hours will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 1:30 p.m. Burial will follow at Saint Joseph Cemetery.

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