Thelma joined older sister Helen in the family. Thelma’s first five years were lived in North Bend Oregon, the family then relocated to Bakersfield CA until Thelma’s senior year of high school. Thelma graduated from Hanford High School, Class of 1947.
Following high school graduation, Thelma married Jacob Richards, November 29, 1947, in Hanford CA. Thelma and Jake raised three children in Hanford. Thelma’s career included her own Child Care Business, working for Sears, Penneys and Kings County Agency on Aging.
Thelma and Jake enjoyed three years living and working in Spain. They enjoyed traveling and exploring Europe before returning to Hanford in 1977. Thelma enjoyed traveling to visit family, camping and trips on the west coast. Thelma and Jake shared 42 years of marriage before Jake’s passing in 1989.
Thelma married Frank Brothers on May 4th, 1991. They moved to Woodburn Oregon in 1992. They shared 12 years of marriage before Frank passed in 2003.Thelma remained in the Pacific Northwest until her passing in Salem Oregon.
Thelma is survived by her children; Barbara Smith (Tom), Bonnie Goldan, Robert Richards (Brenda). Step children; Len Brothers (Shirley), Les Brothers (Jan), John Jones and Sharon Austin. Nineteen grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.