Thelma L. Vandiver

Thelma Louise Vandiver, 100, went to her heavenly home surrounded by her family on Friday, November 25, 2022, at Toledo Hospital after complications from surgery. Thelma was born November 2, 1922, in Lawrence County, TN, to James and Mollie (Garrison) Phillips. She met and married the love of her life, Loyd L. Vandiver, in Tennessee. They were married for 61 years until his passing in 2001.

As a young girl, Thelma talked of picking cotton in the fields with her siblings. When her sister, Clatis, passed during childbirth, Thelma helped care for her niece, Glendora. They remained very close throughout life.

After moving to Ohio, Thelma worked at Pinkerton Tobacco Factory with her sister, Edna, Belman’s Grocery Store as a cashier, Hoskins Shoes, Shoe Spree, and Al Thomas Shoes. She appreciated good shoes and would let you know if yours did not fit you correctly. She was an excellent cook, baker, and enjoyed canning produce from the garden. She was a garage sale enthusiast and collected antiques and jewelry. She seldom turned down a request to babysit and spoil her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Thelma asked Jesus into her heart at an early age. Each morning, she read the Bible and had devotions. She prayed for each family member by name one by one. She was a member of Calvary Church for many years. When she was no longer able to attend services in person, she watched weekly broadcast services with her son, Marshall. When the message was about to begin, she would say, “Be quiet now! This is where it gets good!”

Thelma was dearly loved and survived by her sons, Jerry (Daphne, deceased) and Marshall (Irene), 5 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great grandchildren, sister, Sue, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, 4 sisters, 2 brothers, and grandson, Justin.

Visitation will take place at Calvary Church, 1360 Conant St., Maumee, OH, from 10:00-11:00 am Friday, December 2nd, with service immediately following officiated by Pastor Chad Gilligan. Burial will be private at Ottawa Hills Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Church. Arrangements by Walter Funeral Home.