Thelma Donella Thomas was the fifth daughter born from the union of Thelma and Willie White on December 14, 1933, in Cleveland, OH., both deceased. Thelma is survived by her sisters Dorothy Miles (William), Dolores Taylor Anderson (James), Juanita Nash (Robert), siblings that have preceded her in death are Anna Furcron (Lorenzo) Beatrice Jones (Clarence), Helen Hawthrone (John), and brothers Paul White (Wanda) and Billy.

Thelma Donella attended the Cleveland Public Schools and excelled at a young age, always striving to achieve what was instilled in her by her parents. Thelma envisioned a career in the military in the Women’s Army Corps which matched her demeanor as a strong woman. However, her plans changed when she met and fell in love with Donald Rudolph Thomas. To this union, six children were born, Dale (Carolyn), Dwight, Donna (Bruce), Dewayne (Danita), Darlene (Glen) and Debbie. Thelma was able to keep a close eye on her children as they attended school while working as a lunch aide and teacher’s assistant in the Cleveland Public Schools for many years, serving along with several lunch aid mothers in the community. Thelma had a kind heart and was known for making sure that no child was left hungry on her shift. Thelma’s career with the school system ended untimely and unselfishly to care for both of her ailing parents. Thelma had a hand that would heal the sick and restore their faith. This path led her to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. Mom was certainly overjoyed with her newfound career. Ms. Donella would want all who knew her to know her special love for her children. Thelma was the epitome of a mother bear, willing to protect her children from any danger at a given notice. To know her was to show her love and admiration for her children.

No holiday was left uncelebrated, she made sure presents were under the tree for Christmas, Easter outfits were hemmed and pressed, birthdays were celebrated, and any other holiday recognized. Emphasizing that the ham, turkey, greens, ribs on the grill and all other delicious foods were prepared for her family. Thelma would always put herself last before her children to make sure their needs and desires were met. Thelma never wanted her children to feel that she was not alert or attentive to their needs. If they would say “Mom, are you sleeping”, her response would be “No, I am just resting my eyes!” Most importantly, Thelma was a vocal advocate for her children and grandchildren to obtain their undergraduate and graduate degrees. Always placing Christ first in her life, Thelma became a dedicated member of the church. She attended Liberty Hill Baptist Church for many years until she was physically unable to attend. During countless hours of the day, Thelma would talk to her heavenly Father and ask for strength and guidance until the Lord called her home on October 2, 2023. On this day, there was no more pain and suffering. Momma Thomas was a spectacular mother, provider, a diva, and a lover of the finer things in life. Thelma enjoyed sewing clothing for her children and grandchildren, from elaborate dresses for the girls to traditional African garb for the boys. Thelma was the life of the party with her adoring smile. Sensing that her health was failing, Thelma wanted the company of her family as they cared for her night and day until the Lord called her home to His greener pasture. Thelma will be missed and loved by her children, grandchildren Monique, Nakia, Dale Brandon, Akeem (Briana), Dewayne Jr., Courtney (Shon), Brandon Charles, Carley, Bruce Rashaan and Amari, great grandchildren Jayden and James, Kailey, Lennix, Amina, and Lynlee along with a host of family and friends. She will always be forever in our hearts, until we meet her and our heavenly father. We love you dearly Mom.