Ellen L. Thomas

Ellen L. Thomas, age 85, of Doylestown, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026. She was born on November 30, 1940, and was the beloved daughter of Edward Martin Happ and Evelyn Graham (Axenroth) Happ. Ellen was the sister of the late Patricia Ann Happ Buffler and survived by brother Edward Martin Happ Jr.

A woman of deep faith, Ellen began her education at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, where she would later return as a teacher. She continued her studies at Lansdale Catholic High School and went on to graduate from Immaculata University with a degree in Education, followed by graduate work at Lehigh University, laying the foundation for a lifelong career in teaching and service. Ellen shared her love of learning and mentorship through her work in the Central Bucks School District and through her service at Plumstead Christian School, where she served on the school board and coached both girls’ and boys’ tennis.

Guided by her faith and a passion for nurturing the creativity and curiosity of young minds, Ellen founded The Curiosity Shoppe, Toddler Center, and Camp Curiosity in 1965. She dedicated more than 60 years to serving her community, building a legacy of learning, creativity, and care that touched generations of children and families. Her life’s work was not simply a profession, but a ministry of love, patience, and encouragement, lived out daily in service to others.

Ellen was first married to Eugene Green Leffever in 1962, who preceded her in death in 1978. She later married William Dewey Thomas in 1980, who preceded her in death in 2020.

Ellen is lovingly remembered by her children Eugene II, Jeanette, and Jeremiah; her grandchildren Nathaniel, Nadina, Malachi, Evelyn, William, and Tyler; and her great-granddaughter Liliana. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

A celebration of Ellen’s life will be held on Friday, February 6, with visitation with family and friends beginning at 1:00 p.m., followed by a service at 2:00 p.m., at Calvary Chapel Central Bucks County in Chalfont.

In keeping with Ellen’s lifelong devotion to education and faith, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a school of one’s choice. Institutions that were especially meaningful to Ellen and helped shape her legacy include Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School in Doylestown, Regina Academy at St. John the Baptist in Ottsville, Plumstead Christian School in Bucks County, and Curiosity Academy in Doylestown.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31:25–26 (NIV)