Thelma Marie Rich, 86, of St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Thursday, August 8, 2024 at her home. Surrounded by her loving family. She was born April 7, 1938 in Andrew County, MO, daughter of Margaret and Uga Vessar.
She graduated from Lafayette High School, class of 1956. On March 23, 1958, she married Robert Rich in St. Joseph. Thelma worked as a Switchboard Operator, retiring from US Bank after 25 years. She was a member of the Abundant Faith Church of God. She was a wonderful wife of over 66 years. She was a Foster Mother over a period of 20 years to over 86 different children in the states of California, Massachusetts, and Virginia. Thelma was a community volunteer with the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. She also was honored with being picked Mother of the Year of San Diego, California in 1972. Thelma enjoyed gardening, houseplants, and cooking among many other hobbies and interests.
She also enjoyed being a member of the Sparta Community Club with her role as Entertainment Director for many years. Thelma was also responsible for organizing and helping manage a shut-in ministry with her church for two years.
Thelma was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Tama Rich, and brother, Samuel Vessar.
Survivors include: husband, Robert Rich of the home, children, Jonna Sample (Richard) of St. Joseph and Mark Rich (Durice Ladd) of Oregon, MO, brother, Stephen Vessar of Coeur d'Alene, ID, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.
Funeral Services and public live stream will be 10:00 am, Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at Rupp Funeral Home. The Interment will follow at Leavenworth National Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Tuesday at the Rupp Funeral Home.
