MARA, Thomas J.

18 December 1920 - 10 May 1986 Thomas J. Mara, 65, a teacher at Avondale Elementary School for 25 years before he retired three years ago, died May 10, 1986, at Humana Hospital Desert Valley. Mr. Mara, of Phoenix, was born in Whitesboro, N. Y., and moved to Arizona in 1948. He was a Navy veteran. He attended First Assembly of God Church and was the lead Gospel drummer at the church. He was a member of the Musicians Union. Survivors include his wife, Patricia; daughter, Leslie R. Bagnas; sons, Dwight S., Mark F. and Stephen A.; mother, Olive; two sisters; two brothers; and five grandchildren. Services today at his church, 13613 N. Cave Creek Road. Arrangements were made by Shadow Mountain Mortuary. Memorial contributions may be made to his church. Published in The Arizona Republic May 12, 1986, p. B5.