Thelma Becker

Thelma (Tepper) Becker, 94, passed away peacefully on June 19th, 2024, at her home in Rockville, Maryland. Thelma is survived by her son, Farrel Becker (Gina) of Laytonsville, Maryland, two daughters, Karen Becker of Potomac, Maryland and Terry Fisher (Dennis) of Charleston, South Carolina. She is also survived by her six grandchildren (Sarah Witkin, Alex Witkin (Marisa), Liz Trueblood (Ryan), Kevin Becker, Leah Fisher, and Samantha Fisher) and three great-grandchildren (Owen Witkin, Abby Trueblood, and Connor Trueblood). She is pre-deceased by her husband Stanley D. Becker, brother Fred Tepper, and parents Estelle and Frank Tepper.

Thelma was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1929, but was a Washingtonian at heart, having lived in DC from the age of three. She was happily married for 33 years to her high school sweetheart and love of her life, Stanley. Despite losing him at a young age, she remained cheerful and adventurous, with a zest for life that continues to inspire her family and friends. Thelma played an active role in her grandchildren’s lives, and her relationships with each of them were deeply meaningful to her.

Thelma had a diverse career. Her first job was with the original Israeli Consulate in Washington, later the Embassy. For many years she was a vital part of the Adas Israel Congregation, as an office manager and later as Executive Director. In 1993, she moved to Charleston, South Carolina, and enjoyed working for her son-in-law for over 20 years, retiring at the age of 83 in 2012. Later in life, Thelma traveled the world for many years with her dear friend Sam Greene and celebrated the joys of life with her “adopted” sons, Harlan Greene and Jonathan Ray.

She had a lifelong love for Washington football, often watching games with her honorary granddaughter Rachel Chazen. Thelma also dominated the mahjong tables for over 80 years, and her life included service to others. Most of all, she was happiest spending time with her family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

The funeral service is Thursday, June 20th, graveside at King David Memorial Gardens at 11am. Donations in her memory can be made to Hadassah (https://www.hadassah.org/donate ; (800) 928-0685), Jewish Social Services (JSSA, 6123 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD 20852), and/or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (https://www.lls.org/ ; (800) 955-4572).