Thelma J. Turley's Obituary
Thelma J. Turley, age 92, of Lithia Springs passed on to her Heavenly home June 12, 2024. Born to Steve and Kitty James in Charleston, SC, she grew up in several areas of the US as Steve served in the US Navy. While Steve was at Sea during World War II, Kitty and the family moved to Douglas County, GA to be with generations of the James family. Thelma graduated from Douglas County High School, Class of 1948, and led her class as Valedictorian. Thelma met the love of her life in 1949, James T. Turley, and the two married at Midway Methodist Church in 1950.
Thelma was an advocate for civil rights her entire life, with voter’s rights and women’s rights reflecting her core values. She was a dedicated Elections Poll Manager for many years, ensuring that elections in Douglas County took place fairly and without voter fraud, a cause for which she was adamant. She also served in the League of Women Voters on the Georgia State Board. Thelma had a passion and mission for the betterment of community through education, which led to her election as the Chairman of the Douglas County School Board, Chairperson of the Douglas County Literacy Council, and appointment to the State Foster Care Review Board (a predecessor to the CASA program) by Governor Jimmy Carter. Her community service also included being a Girl Scout Leader. Creating healthy, safe communities was important to Thelma. She served as the Douglas County representative for the Atlanta Regional Commission, a group focused on developing a better community for the Greater 11-County Atlanta Region.
Thelma’s generous spirit shone through in every aspect of her life. She was intuitive, able to sense when a helping hand was needed, always offering it in the most sensitive and non-judgmental way possible. She brought to the table an encyclopedic knowledge and a gentle wisdom imbued with faith. Her faith was important to her and she was long-time member of Lithia Springs Methodist Church.
Thelma was actively involved in her community, but in her free time had varied interests. She enjoyed needlework, knitting, fiber crafts and was a talented custom seamstress. She was always ready to teach and was a valued member of Needle Nerds.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, James T. Turley; her parents; and her brother, Bob James.
Thelma is survived by her daughter, Patricia Turley Smithline of Marietta; granddaughter, Melanie Nelson (husband, Mike) of Marietta; niece, Catherine Rossi (husband, Dennis); and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, a great-great niece, and dear friends.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
Thelma’s legacy as a great advocate for her community, a trailblazer ahead of her time, and an ardent champion for women’s rights until the day she left us. She will leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those whose lives she touched. We’ll hold her in our hearts always.
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