Thelma Vivian Barker

In 1984, Thelma opened her first quilt shop in Terrell, Texas, marking the beginning of what would become Sew 'n Sew. Over the years, the shop moved from Terrell to Elmo, Texas, and finally to Canton, Texas where it has proudly served the quilting community since 2004.

Thelma was deeply involved in the quilting world and was an active member of two quilt guilds. She generously donated countless yards of fabric to guild projects and to individuals creating quilts and handmade items for charitable organizations. Her kindness, knowledge, and willingness to help others touch the lives of countless quilters throughout East Texas and beyond.

On January 3, 2026, Thelma celebrated her 91st birthday. After decades of serving the quilting community, the demands of weekly trips to the shop began to take their toll, and she stepped back from her regular work at the store.

On June 9, 2026 Thelma passed away peacefully. While we mourn the loss of a remarkable woman, we celebrate the incredible legacy she left behind a legacy of generosity, craftsmanship, friendship, and a love of quilting that continues to inspire us every day.

Thelma is survived by her son, Guy Paul Barker; cousin, Royce Buesing; other cousins and her many friends who loved her. She is preceded in death by her parents, Felix and Erna Pargmann Linhart.

We hope you had the opportunity to meet Thelma, learn from her wisdom, and share in her passion for quilting.

Thelma's legacy lives on in every stitch, every quilt, and every friend made along the way.