Thelma Elizabeth Church, 87, died peacefully Wednesday, December18, 2024. Born August9, 1937, Thelma was the older daughter of George and Jessie Bentzel. Married in December 1984, she was the wife of Dennis (Denny) A. Church for 40 years. In addition to being a wonderful mother to all her children, Thelma was classic old school and believed that taking care of yourself involved staying active and eating well. From high school on, she was an excellent cook and homemaker. She was also a first-rate seamstress, an avid cross-stitcher, an active member in the local homemaker’s club, and a leader in the 4H club. She enjoyed jigsaw puzzles and, in later life, also worked word puzzles, searches, and games
with passion. Faith was foundational in her life. From her summer camp experience at Central Oak Heights where she gave her life to Jesus, she enjoyed singing and was a part of the church choir throughout her life. She taught children’s Sunday school, worked with various youth groups, and held multiple positions in the church. She was active in the Eastern Star, where she served as Worthy Matron. Thelma loved the beach and made yearly treks to Wildwood with the family. She also loved gardening and watching the birds and butterflies. She and Denny travelled extensively and visited many parts of the U.S, including Hawaii. Over all of this, she was about Family. Her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were important to her and she treasured every opportunity she had to
spend with them. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Ronald Bentzel, her sister, Sallie Church, and her first husband, Boyd Sieg. She is survived by her husband, and her children, stepchildren, and their spouses: Sharon Renoll (Clay), Jerry Sieg (Karlyn), Troy Sieg, Donald Church, Susan Day, Rosemary Lease (Richard), and Cynthia Glass (Maris). Thelma had 19 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren. In homage to Thelma’s love of the spring time and the beach, a celebration of life will be held in May 2025 to honor her.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sarah A. Todd Memorial Home, 1000 West South St., Carlisle, PA 17013.