MILFORD - Nanciellen Dorler, of Milford formerly of Poughkeepsie, N.Y., passed away peacefully at home Feb. 17, 2011, surrounded by loved ones after a long illness. She was 78. She was born July 25, 1932, in Hawkins, Wis., the eldest child of the late James A. Poore and Viola Mae (Anderson) Poore. After graduating high school as valedectorian, she moved with her mother to Highland Park, Ill., where among other things she taught dance classes at Arthur Murray Studios. At a USO dance in 1952 she met Henry Thoms of West Roxbury, Mass., a sailor stationed in the Great Lakes. They were married in 1953 and settled in Massachusetts, later moving to New York State. They had five children together and were divorced in 1981. Among her many talents, Nanciellen was a jewelry maker and published author of poetry and children's books. She was a voracious reader and often served as a "human dictionary" for family. She was involved in community theater for many years, both on stage as an actor and singer, and behind the scenes as a costume and production designer for County Players of Wappingers Falls, N.Y. An accomplished pianist and singer, she lent her talents to church choirs, small ensembles, the Putnam County, N.Y., Chorale, and most recently the choir of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Georgetown. Nanciellen was a dedicated volunteer for the Delaware Hospice Transitions program and the Milford Senior Center. She was predeceased by her brother, Richard Poore. She is survived by her brother, Gary Poore of Utah; four sisters, Paula Poore of Oklahoma, and Patricia Grubbs, Pamela Berry and Peggy Pavlik of Texas; her children, Randall (Joann) Thoms of Goshen, Conn., Paula (Stuart) Thoms/Johnston of Milford, Edward (Shannon) Thoms of Morrisville, Pa., Shirley Thoms of Milford, and Henry Erick Thoms of Halifax, Mass.; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. The family wishes to thank the staff and volunteers of Delaware Hospice, as well as Marilyn Perrigan, Cathy Wells and Angela Perrigan, whose care made it possible for Nanciellen to remain comfortable at home and pass with peace and dignity. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963. Arr. by Lofland Funeral Home, Milford, DE.