"\"Grandma Winfrey\" is how my children calls her. She was my dearest Mother in law whom was such a blessing to have in our family. I am truly fortunate to be her daughter despite of my shortcomings. I will always treasure our time together in Morgantown, Hawaii and San Diego. It\'s been many years since we last saw her and I do regret not being in touch throughout the years. I have so many fond memories of her that I will always treasure in my heart. She loved to cook for us! She taught me how to make Fried Chicken; shaking and marinating it inside a grocery bag and how to fry the best fried Okra I\'ve ever tasted! She enjoyed lighting candles at the end of the day to relax and she enjoyed socializing with our children; Kenneth, Kristen and my youngest Isaac Wong; spoiling them with McDonald\'s fries occasionally. She was adored and loved by my family! Her voice was like \"music\"; So strong, so jolly and she always so funny and witty! WE LOVE YOU Grandma Winfrey! May you rest easy in Paradise with Dad and all your love ones. "
In loving memory of
Thelma Maree Winfrey
August 10, 1929 - November 11, 2020
Thelma M. Winfrey, 91, currently of Wernersville PA, and formerly of Morgantown passed away on Wednesday, November 11, 2020 at Rosewood Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Schuylkill County PA.
Born in Brookhaven MS, she was the third child of the late Johnson and Mary Tyler Sartin. She was a 1947 graduate of Alexander High School in Brookhaven.
For most of her working life, Thelma was employed in retail settings after completing one year of college at Howard University. She met and married Lawrence Winfrey, a soldier, in 1949 and during the early years of marriage moved and held jobs stateside as he served out his military obligations.
Through most of her life, Thelma was devoted to her church and community volunteering, finally settling in Morgantown, WV where she lived for over forty years, until relocating to Wernersville to live with her daughter in 2002. She enjoyed political commentary, singing, yard work and keeping fit by walking briskly each day, until her health started to decline in recent years.
Thelma is survived by her son Kenneth Winfrey of Honolulu, HI and daughter Sylvia Winfrey of Wernersville; two grandchildren Kenneth Winfrey, Jr and. Kristen Fuller of San Diego, CA; a host of nieces and nephews, as well as numerous family and friends living all over the country.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Lawrence; a son Lawrence, Jr.; two sisters, two stepsisters, and a brother.
Friends may join the family to honor Thelma's life & legacy at Smith Funeral & Cremation Care, 108 Holland Ave., Morgantown / Westover, WV on Thursday, November 19th from 10:00 AM until the time of the funeral service at 11:30 AM officiated by Pastor Neil Leftwich. Interment will follow in Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens, Westover.
Guests in attendance will be required to wear face coverings and practice recommended social distancing guidelines.
The family suggests that contributions be made to Christian Help, 219 Walnut St., Morgantown, WV, 26505.
Personal condolences and other symbolic gestures for the family may be offered at www.smithfcc.com.
Tributes
"Reminiscing on those days when you would take a trip out to SD to visit your grandchildren and take care of us. As well as the time you time we stayed with you and Auntie Sylvia in West Virginia. Although the memories are few, what I remember is the amount of love you showed us. And of course the amazing food you would whip up! Love and miss you Grandma. Condolences and prayers to the family -Ken Ken "
"praying for family so sorry for your lost but heaven has gained a dear saint. would love to see Kenneth remember him as a young boy. I am 88 and doing well for my age. love to all sister Nina James"
"Thelma was essentially my grandma growing up in Morgantown. She was the kindest soul and the best cook! RIP. Thank you for everything. Sylvia, thank you for hosting us throughout the years in PA. If you ever need anything, please don?t hesitate to reach out. You are in our prayers. "
"Truly was blessed to know this precious lady. Enjoyed our visit with her and Sylvia at the huge buffet, of course Thelma loved the dessert the most. Have and will miss her. "
"She had a great voice singing at church,so loved it when her husband and her sang,Rip my friend till we meet again"
"This lady was my mom\'s best friend. She was so kind to me and my family. She made the best fried chicken and homemade nut rolls. Our families had a great friendship for many many years. She will be missed. To Sylvia and Kenny - love you guys. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Toni Jones "