Thelma E. Bush

Thelma was born September 20, 1937 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada to Ophir Joseph and Thelma Matilda (Eklof) Meilleur.

She married Paul Wesley Bush on April 16, 1966 in Carbondale, IL; he preceded her in death on April 9, 1998.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, Maurice (Sherry) Meilleur.

Thelma is survived by her loving family, including her three children, Brenda Kaye (David) Raynes, Kevin Michael (Robin) Bush and Steven Andrew (Kathi) Bush; grandchildren, Tyler (Alexis) Voss, Ryan Voss, Lauren (Josh) Clark, Autumn Bush, Cole Bush and Kyra Bush; great-grandchildren, Declan, Felicity, Conrad, Richard, Baylee, London, Graham and Elliot; and one sister, Maureen (Wayne) Bell.

For 25 years, Thelma worked as the secretary to the superintendent for Dupo Community Unit School District 196. She was dedicated to her work and appreciated by the many people whose lives she touched throughout her career. She also worked for 16 years at Daugherty Public Library in Dupo, IL, creating friendships and memories that would last a lifetime.

In her younger years, Thelma enjoyed traveling with her family, boating, and camping. Together, with Paul, they were very involved in their children’s activities, spending countless hours supporting them through Khoury League sports, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and church.

Thelma also loved embroidery and took pride in creating beautiful handmade pieces. Above all, she treasured time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her endless joy.

She will be remembered for her kind heart, her devotion to her family, and the love she shared with everyone who knew her. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who were blessed to call her family and friend.

A visitation for Thelma will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 from 10:00 A.M.- 12:00 P.M. at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home in Belleville, IL.

A funeral will follow the visitation, at 12:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Pastor Todd Mushaney will officiate. Final interment will be at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, alongside her beloved husband, Paul.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association or United Church of Christ in Dupo, IL.