Thelma attended Franklin Elementary School; graduated from Boytan Haren High, all girls school, and later graduated from Central School for Practical Nurses in 1959. She moved to New York City, New York on May 1, 1947. Thelma was employed in the City Hospital System, where she met and married Herman Hightower on July 12, 1950. They moved to Queens, New York on November 1, 1957. While residing in Queens, Thelma worked at Bellview Hospital, before retiring as head nurse from Forest View Nursing Home after 20 years of service.
After Herman Hightower departed this life on December 28, 1997, Thelma moved to Sarasota to be in warm snowless area and to be near family. She was active in several churches here in New York and Sarasota, recently she joined Bethlehem Bible Church, under Pastor Patrick Miller. Thelma volunteered at the Heron House Assisted Living facility for 10 years, providing religious services.
Thelma is survived by daughter Jacquline Cumming; 3 grandchildren, one great granddaughter, nieces, nephews and many friends. Thelma is preceded in death by a sister and brother.
A graveside service for Thelma will be held Wednesday, June 9, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Ave, Sarasota, FL 34232.
