Julia Augusta Lanier Thomas (known as Gus or Augusta) was called to the Lord on Sunday, May 25, 2025. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by family.

She was a devoted wife and mother. She and her family managed Columbia Fire Service in Maryland before moving to Delaware. Augusta spent more than 30 years with the Millville Volunteer Fire Company. She was the first woman firefighter. She was active with Mariners Bethel United Methodist Church, including making knitted hats, scarves, and mittens, and sewing dresses and slips for Appalachian children.

Augusta was incredibly talented, creating artwork and Christmas cards with scenes of the beach for more than 50 years.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard, and her dog, Tinkerbell. She is survived by her children, Richard Thomas, Louise Thomas Keller, and Bill Thomas, as well as five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service and Service of Christian Life and Resurrection will be held at Millville Volunteer Fire Company Meeting Room, 35554 Atlantic Avenue, Millville, DE on Saturday, November 15, 2025. The entrance is on the side of the building. The family will receive guests from 10-11 a.m., with the service to follow at 11 a.m. There will be a graveside service at Mariners Bethel United Methodist Church, 81 Central Avenue, Ocean View, DE, followed by a light lunch at the Fire Company.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Millville Volunteer Fire Company.