Thelma Lee Cantwell, 89, went to her heavenly home on October 13, 2026. She was surrounded by some of the many that love her. Thelma was born September 3, 1937, in Calico Rock, Arkansas. She is now reunited with the love of her life, Elvis. They were married on May 22, 1955 in Norfork, Arkansas and spent 50 years happily married. Thelma was a longtime member of Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church. After joining in 1962, she taught children’s Sunday School, sang in the choir, and could be found helping at every event the church hosted. She spent years as a cook at Springfield Public Schools and babysitting children, developing relationships with the children and families that last to this day. Thelma cared deeply about her friends, neighbors, and church family. Thelma is survived by son Rick and wife Sandy, son Ron and wife Vicki, grandson Chris and wife Tina, grandson Rob and wife Brandy, granddaughter Audra and husband Josh, her sister Pat, and nine great-grandchildren. Thelma most enjoyed spending time with her family; whether at the lake, in the yard during a Mother’s Day celebration, or at someone’s house celebrating a holiday, she could be found at the center of the chaos, smiling, laughing, and making sure nobody went hungry. Thelma also enjoyed cooking for her family, spending time tending to her flowers, catching raw eggs, and filming long, uninterrupted shots of the ground with her camcorder while she walked. Thelma was a positive and passionate soul who touched all of those around her. She was the toughest person we ever knew and could endure any adversity with a smile on her face and love for the Lord in her heart. She was loved deeply and will be missed by many. Services will be held at Greenlawn North on October 19th at 10:00 AM, with visitation and burial to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are being accepted for Fair Grove United Methodist Church, 83 E Hickory, Fair Grove, MO 65648.

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