Thelma May Hale

Married to Eugene on March 4, 1950, Thelma spent many cherished years with him until his passing in 1997. She was a woman of strong will and was very close to her four sons. Thelma loved reading cookbooks and creating recipes, often advising others on how to enhance their dishes. Despite her small stature, she was feisty and mighty. She enjoyed spending time outdoors, swinging on her porch swing, and gardening. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren, creating beautiful puzzles together.

Thelma was always smiling and ready to help lift your spirits. She also had a fondness for lotto tickets. Ever the hospitable host, she always had bacon and eggs on hand, ready to feed a crowd, especially her boys after a long night out.

Thelma was predeceased by her siblings: Ray "Bud" Orebaugh, Raymond "John" Orebaugh Jr., Sophia Elnora "Sis" Blunk, Vivian "Veda" Manuel, Betty Ann Fulmer, JoAnn Oakes, George Orebaugh, and Cora Thomas. She is survived by her four sons: Eugene (Terri) Hale, Steven (Elaine) Hale, Bobby (Ashley) Hale, and Billy (Sandy) Hale.

Her legacy continues through her loving grandchildren: Matt (Heather) Hale, Codi Hale, Nancy (Adrien) Martin, Kristin Hale, Haley (Gavin) Posey, Billy Hale Jr., Austin Hale, Anna Hale, Bobby Joe Shreve, Ava Adams, Weston Hale, and Piper Hale. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Brandon Collins, Bryston Collins, Lincoln Martin, Isla Martin, Gavin Martin, Jaxon Shreve, Fred Harvey, Cameron Posey, Connor Posey, and Amelia Hale.

A visitation will be held at Little & Sons Funeral Home, located at 1301 Main Street, Beech Grove, IN 46107, on February 25, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

The funeral service is scheduled for February 26, 2026, at 11:00 am, with a time to gather beginning at 10:00 am.

Thelma will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens & Funeral Home, located at 1977 S State Rd 135, Greenwood, IN 46143, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm.