Thelma Elser Blake, 97, of Fort Smith, passed from this life August 16, 2015 in Fort Smith. She was born February 23, 1918, in Altus, Arkansas, to the late William and Katherine Elser. Thelma retired, after 31 years, from St. Edwards Hospital, as the charge nurse in the Emergency Room. She answered her calling to care for people. She was known far and wide for her heart of gold. Thelma retired to concentrate on being ‘Nana’ to her grandchildren. She was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church for over 60 years.
Thelma is survived by her children; her son, Thomas Blake of Fort Smith; her daughter, Deborah Montgomery and her husband, Joe Don of Alma; Mary Ann Wilhelm and her husband Mike of Fort Smith and her son, David Blake of Greenwood; a sister, Mary Jo Wilson of Fort Smith; eight grandchildren, Jennifer Dunn, Alicia Evans, Blake Montgomery, Becky Sadler, Amber Montgomery, David and John Blake and Michael Wilhelm, as well as eight great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur E. Blake; her son Arthur W. Blake; her sisters, Wilhelmine Polk and Rosemarie Meggers and her brothers, Adolf and Herman Elser.
Mass of Christian burial will be 11:00am Thursday, August 20, 2015 at Christ the King Catholic Church with burial to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. The family will visit with friends from 6:00 to 7:00pm Wednesday, August 19, 2015 at Christ the King Catholic Church with rosary to follow at 7:00pm. Services will be officiated by her nephew, Father William Elser.
Memorials may be made to Special Olympics Arkansas, 2115 Main Street, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72114 or Bost, Inc., P.O. Box 11495, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72917.
Services are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. To sign an online guest book, visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com.
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