Thelma Clara Hearn

Thelma Clara Hearn, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed away in her sleep at home on December 30, 2024, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Born on September 2, 1932, in Singleton, Texas, Thelma's life journey was marked by love, laughter, and a deep commitment to her family and faith in Jesus Christ.

Thelma's early years were spent in Tucson, Arizona, where she took on the significant role of caregiver for six of her siblings after relocating from Texas with their father in 1946. As the eldest sibling, she fostered a home filled with love and responsibility, earning the deep love and respect of her brothers and sisters. Throughout her life, Thelma remained a steadfast pillar of support and affection within her family.

Thelma married the love of her life, Lawrence James Hearn, in Houston, Texas. Their life together was a testament to love and partnership, as they navigated the challenges of military life while raising five wonderful children. The family enjoyed many adventures together across various countries before settling in Tucson, Arizona, where Lawrence retired after serving 20 years in the US Air Force .

Thelma’s personality was as vibrant as her laughter was contagious. She had a remarkable talent for making friends out of strangers, and those who encountered her were drawn to her warmth and unique sense of humor. She was a devoted wife, nurturing mother, and loving grandmother, cherished by her eleven grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She was loved greatly by many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Thelma enjoyed serving in her church which included singing in the choir and using the beautiful voice that God blessed her with.  Her favorite Bible Verse was Jeremiah 29:11 which says "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." 

Thelma is survived by her brother Clarence Andrews and his wife MaryJo;  sister Halene Giddings; as well as her children; Jacqueline and her husband Will Jones, sons Glenn Hearn and his wife Jan, Greg, Charles and his wife Patty, and Vincent and his wife Cassy, and many nieces and nephews.  Each family member holds dear countless beautiful memories of her enduring spirit and unwavering love.

She is preceded in death by her father, James Herbert Andrews; mother, Velma Hughes; devoted husband, Lawrence James Hearn; brothers James, Thomas, Ira, and Vernon Andrews; and sisters Lola Ward, Katy Andrews, and Mildred Shepherd. Thelma now rests in the eternal embrace of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A memorial service in Thelma’s honor will be held in San Antonio,Texas.  Family and friends will gather to pay our last respects to Thelma and be a comfort to each other. Thelma will be buried alongside her husband at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.