Thelma Hayes was born on Feb 19, 1923, in South Boston, VA and passed on Nov 23, 2025, at the age of 102. Thelma was the only daughter of Lucy Walker and Alexander Carson Puryear from Virgilina, Virginia. She is preceded by her husband, William Kenneth Hayes originally from Roxboro, N.C. who died on March 28, 2007.

She is survived by her son, Jeffrey Lynn Hayes of Strasburg (Cathy Martin) and his daughters, Lindsey Jett (Josh Jett), and Amy Hayes. She lived in Orange City, Florida at the Land of Lake mobile home park since 1977. Thelma's last 4 years were spent at Americare Assisted Living, Water's Edge in Deltona, Florida,

Thelma worked for 9 years at RCA, in Lancaster, PA on television camera picture tubes prior to the birth of her son. Thelma was an avid homemaker and enjoyed taking care of her home and family. She and her husband enjoyed dancing, attendance in the Methodist church, rock collecting, gardening, camping in their RV and playing cards. She enjoyed visiting with her friends and lived independently with assistance from friends until the age of 98. She was a strong, independent woman, who was well liked by her friends and staff at Americare for her willingness to participate in activities and to talk to.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, December 8, 2025, at the Bachman Snyder Funeral Home, 7 S. Decatur St., Strasburg, PA 17579 beginning at 11:30 AM. The family will greet guests from 10:30 AM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Water Street Rescue Mission .