Thelma J. Johnson 1930-2025

She was born Sept. 4, 1930, in Warren, a daughter of Nicholas and Amelia Stauffer Dellinger.

Thelma was a 1948 graduate of Niles McKinley High School and spent much of her adult life as a devoted homemaker, raising and caring for her family.

She married David E. Johnson on Feb. 9, 1952, and together they shared 54 years of marriage filled with laughter, hard work and cherished memories. He preceded her in death on Feb. 13, 2006.

Strong-willed, independent, and determined, Thelma lived life on her own terms. She surprised her husband by secretly taking a job at McDonald’s, simply because she wanted to work and contribute in her own way. Later, as a school lunch lady, she took immense pride in making sure every child was fed — and ensured they cleaned their plates before heading back to class.

Thelma loved her friends and family dearly and attended as many gatherings, celebrations and events as she possibly could. Her warm presence, quick wit, and genuine care for others made her a beloved part of every circle she joined.

She was active at Trinity Lutheran Church in Niles, participating in the quilting group and serving on various committees. She was also a past member of the Howland Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. She enjoyed playing cards, attending social outings and taking occasional trips to the casino. She especially loved bingo and was known as one of the luckiest women around — winning so often that people joked she had a special touch.

Even in her later years, Thelma remained active and purposeful. At 92 and 93 years old, she completed 97 lap robe quilts, all of which she donated to the local veterans home in Bay Minette, Alabama — an act of generosity that perfectly reflected her giving spirit.

Her greatest joy was her family, especially her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure. She also leaves behind a very special neighbor, Barney, who cared deeply for her and treasured their friendship. She was a kind, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, neighbor and friend. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by three children, Bob (Leanne) Johnson of Ardmore, Oklahoma, Sharon (Larry) Hickman of Loxley, Alabama, and Leslie (Marie) Johnson of Ocala, Florida; six grandchildren, Michelle (Eric) Jonke, Christina Johnson, Kelli (Gary) Hall, Nicole Johnson, Melissa (Eric) Wilkins and Shayna (Austin) Sutton; 12 great-grandchildren; and two great-great granddaughters.

Besides her husband, Thelma was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Larry and Robert Dellinger; and eight sisters, Lorraine Piecuch, Dorothy Mariani, Marian McCloskey, Betty Shorthouse, Jeanette Gallite, Lillian Dellinger, Gladys Barnhart and Sally Bacher.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18 at the Lane Funeral Home, Mineral Ridge Chapel, 1350 N. Canfield Niles Road, Mineral Ridge. Friends may call one hour prior to the service, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, at the funeral home.

She will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband in Crown Hill Burial Park in Vienna.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Trinity Lutheran Church, 56 N. Chestnut Ave., Niles, OH 44446, in Thelma’s memory.

This obituary may be viewed and condolences can be sent by visiting www.lanefuneralhomes.com.

(special notice)