Thelma Elliott Phares
Oct 4, 1907 - May 20, 1997

One Woman's Journey

Born of humble beginnings on a West Virginia mountain side. Your childhood days saw family tragedy. These were the years which formed in you the spirit of a survivor. No hardship or obstacle was too difficult to overcome.

Moving about the country you stretched the truth about your age in order to earn a living. Throughout this time you maintained a bond with your siblings which demonstrated the importance of family in your life. One day you met the man of your dreams - a carpenter and farmer who would remain your companion through life's journey. Together you began a family and worked the land. As the years passed, your family grew into generations.

More sadness would come as you said goodbye to your only son, and later put to rest the handsome farmer who stood by your side for 63 years. Being the survivor you are, you carried on for ten more years: maintaining your independence until you finally agreed though not without stubborn resistance, that you now needed the assistance of others. It was time for you to reap the benefits of the values you instilled in your family.

Now your journey has reached its end. Though we rejoice you have received the reward you so long desired, we mourn for ourselves for we will miss your laughter, your stories of the past - and your cooking. You are our source of life - our matriarch.

As we live on, you live on in us. May we be an example to future generations as you have been to us. And may you hear the Father say "Well done good and faithful servant. Come see the place I have prepared for you."

--- Rick Matash May 24, 1997