Thelma Mae Tucker

Thelma M. Tucker passed away peacefully Monday, March 2, 2026, at Keystone Villa at Ephrata, PA after courageously battling Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in the last years of her life. Thelma was the devoted and faithful companion of Grace Ann Schanz, of Lancaster, who passed away January 2, 2024.

Thelma was a former Insurance Executive and was one of the first women in her generation to serve as an insurance broker following her education at business school in Reading, PA. Thelma took her profession very seriously and was a lifelong learner, always striving to provide the best in service and professionalism to the clients who trusted and respected Thelma.

She retired from the former Geesey, Glatfelter and Zarfoss Agency, York, PA in 1994 and enjoyed a long career in the insurance industry, a portion of which was served at the former Paul G. Murray Insurance Associates and Engle, Hambright & Davies in Lancaster where Thelma made life-long friends. Thelma specialized in serving small business owners and developed expertise in the kennel and dog grooming industry.

As the long-time companion of Grace Ann Schanz, with whom she resided for more than 40 years in Lancaster, Thelma was a faithful friend and was always by Grace’s side. They traveled together, shared life together and were rarely, if ever, apart from one another.

Thelma and Grace traveled as often as they were able in their earlier years and enjoyed going on cruises to the Caribbean and their yearly outing to Virginia Beach to see the Christmas light displays. She had a love of pets, especially dogs, and enjoyed camping, fishing, and boating in her younger years. She developed a love of the outdoors from her father with whom she hunted as a young girl.

Thelma was a life-long member of Muddy Creek Lutheran Church, Denver, PA attending with her parents from childhood. Thelma valued the faith instilled in her by her parents and was grateful to Pastor Peter Schwabe-Frey and the congregants at the church for their care and ministry to her in her last years.

Thelma was a member of the VFW Auxiliary Post 1463, Lititz, PA, American Legion Auxiliary Post 34, Amvets Auxiliary Post 19, the Rainmakers Association and Riverside Camping Association, all of Lancaster, PA.

Thelma graduated from Cocalico Union High School, Denver, PA, McCann School of Business, in Reading, PA and was a licensed Pennsylvania Property and Casualty Insurance Broker. She also attended Franklin & Marshall College to further her education.

Thelma was born in Reamstown (Stevens), PA, daughter of Parke S. and Florence L. (Sharp), Tucker. Thelma was the last of her immediate family and will be missed by those who knew her, loved and cared for her. Thelma was very grateful for her kind and loyal Maxson Road neighbors, the beloved team at the Lyndon Diner and especially for the quality of care showered on her by the compassionate and dedicated Team at Keystone Villa at Ephrata’s Memory Care Unit.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Hospice and Community Care, 695 Good Drive, Lancaster PA 17601 or Meals on Wheels of Lancaster, 1411 Columbia Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603. In keeping with Thelma’s wishes there will be no public viewing or life celebration services. Interment will be held privately.