Thelma Katherine Smith's Obituary
Thelma Katherine Smith, age 80, of DuQuoin, IL, passed away on Tuesday, September 11, 2012 at 2:05 a.m. in her home surrounded with love by her family. Thelma was born on February 12, 1932 in Carterville, IL, a daughter to William Onis and Gettie Colline (Walker) Downs. On December 27, 1950, she married Earl Harrison Smith in Pinckneyville, IL and he preceded her in death on April 8, 1989 after 39 beautiful years of marriage. She was a member of the First United Pentecostal Church, DuQuoin, IL for over 45 years and was a caregiver to many and had worked at Gold Plate, DuQuoin, IL. Thelma enjoyed singing at the local nursing homes and her church and playing dominos. She dearly loved her church, family and taking care of people. Survivors include two daughters, Sandra (Shad) Pruitt of Winfield, KS and Katherine (Robert) Smith of Cutler, IL; three brothers, Bob (Shirley) Downs of Tamaroa, IL, Clarence Wayne (Alice) Downs of DuQuoin, IL, and Milton (Mary Lou) Downs of Collinsville, IL; two sisters, Bonnie (Bob) Smith of Arkansas City, KS and Viola (Curtis) Baker of Chester, IL; nine grandchildren, Larry Webb, Bobby Webb, Betty Combs, Chris Webb, Clifford Melvin, Corinna Garcia, Cheryl Schneider, Crystal Chapman and Nathanael Chapman; a dear friend, Ed Peeler of Elkville, IL; over twenty great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; two brothers, Albert Downs and Deon Downs; three sisters, Ruby Baker, Martha Smith and Rosie Allen; three great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Funeral services will be held at the First United Pentecostal Church, DuQuoin, IL on Sunday, September 16, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. with Reverend Dan McKinnies and Reverend C.L. McKinnies officiating. Interment will be in Coulterville City Cemetery, Coulterville, IL. Friends may call at the First United Pentecostal Church, DuQuoin, IL on Saturday from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Sunday at the church from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Memorial donations may be made to Homebound Ministries. Pyatt Funeral Home, DuQuoin, IL is in charge of arrangements.
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