VAN BUREN, Mo. — Thelma Hager, 78 of Van Buren passed away Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021 at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.
She was born June 28, 1943 at Taft, Missouri. Thelma was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Eula Brannum, and husband of 55 years, Jimmy Hager.
She is survived by her son, Dr. Tim Hager, wife, Lana, of Van Buren; one daughter, Sara Henson and husband, Chad, of Piedmont. In addition, she had seven grandchildren, Brittany Nickelson (Jake), Macy Hager, Dylan Hager, Haley Henson (Johnny), Heather Henson, Ashlyn Henson and Logan Henson and three great-grandchildren, Gavin, Ava and Chloe Vivian.
Thelma was a long-time member of Trinity Baptist Church, where she served over 50 years as the pianist. She lived in the Harviell area for most of her life and was a 1961 graduate of Neelyville High School.
For several years, Thelma was a stay-at-home Mom, but once her children graduated high school, she returned back to the workforce. She finished her work career as a retiree of the J.C. Penney Co. store in Poplar Bluff.
In her spare time, Thelma enjoyed listening to music and playing the piano. In the summer she was often found working outdoors in her yard, gardening and landscaping. Other hobbies included arts, crafts, sewing and painting. She was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and very much enjoyed attending games at Busch Stadium.
Her true favorite activity was attending any event that involved her grandchildren. She could often be found traveling to softball and basketball games, concerts, banquets and graduations. She was definitely their number one fan and supporter.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021 at Trinity Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. The 2 p.m. service will be officiated by Rev. Don Hutto.
Online condolences: www.mcspaddenfh.com