Thelma Louise Ijames Petree left her earthly tabernacle Monday, February 7, 2022 from the Village Care Nursing Facility in King, NC.  She was born May 29, 1953 to the late Clara Louise Ijames where upon her death, her three children, Thelma, Patricia, and Carolyn were reared and raised up as siblings along with the other children of their grandparents, mother-Ola Mae Petree and Jessie G. Petree, Sr.  Four of those siblings preceded her in this journey, three sisters and one brother, Lena Jeanette Ijames Benson, Rosa Lee Ijames Evans, Gwendolyn Delores Petree Berry, and Jessie G. Petree, Jr.

She leaves to cherish her memories her four remaining sisters, Mae McManus, Carolyn (Lee) McKoy, Elaine Rorie, and Patricia Ijames who was her caregiver, living and keeping her in the home until her health continued to decline; she also leaves special nieces and nephew, Chantay Ijames, Patrice Ijames, and Jerrold Ijames; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.

Thelma was a very active and faithful supporter in her service to the Lord until her health started to decline.  She attended the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools graduating from North Forsyth High School and entered into the United States Army where she served her country until she retired.  Upon returning home, she was employed with the Sara Lee Company from which she also retired. Thelma is loved and will be missed by her loved ones, especially Patricia, who commented that it was fitting to celebrate her homegoing on Valentine's Day because in taking care of her she truly became her heart.  We would like to thank you all for your love, prayers, and presence here today.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Sunday, February 13, 2022 at Russell Funeral Home. Private services will be held Monday, February 14, 2022. Interment will be held Wednesday, February 16, 2022 in Salisbury National Cemetery, Salisbury, NC.