Thelma Lee Peters' Obituary
PETERS, THELMA LEE was born Thelma Lee McGill, January 15,1932 in Richards, Texas to parents, Major and Bessie McGill. She was the youngest of nine children born to this union. She attended Richards Public School in her formidable years and grew up in the church, a member of Methodist Church Yaboro Chapel in Anderson, Texas. She moved to Dallas in 1951 after high school. Thelma McGill married the love of her life, Joe Nathan Peters on August 18, 1951. They owned and operated the Cozy Corner restaurant at Ross and Hall in Dallas for 25 years where they always extended kindness to those in need of a hot meal. Their marriage was blessed with four children who made their parents proud and have always remained close. Thelma and Joe were supportive parents who sacrificed to help each of their children reach their goals. One of her favorite sayings to her children was, “You can call me anytime, day or night and I’ll be there. If I can’t drive, I’ll take a taxi because baby I’m coming.” In 1988 they retired from their business to enjoy spending time traveling, watching sports, gardening and having quality time with their children and grandchildren. Thelma was widowed in January 2001 when Joe lost his fight with cancer. She mourned the loss of her only love until she left us but found solace in her family as great grandchildren were added. She devoted most of her time to helping them thrive and showing them love. She was always the rock of the family and always made time for each of her children and their friends. She always had an open door and a listening ear. There was never a stranger in her home as she made sure everyone knew they were welcome. On any holiday you could visit and find the house filled to overflowing. Thelma had abundant wisdom. While never one to force advice, when asked, she lovingly shared experiences or offered guidance. She was never critical and often turned a sad conversation into laughter. Thelma loved the Lord, Jesus Christ as her Savior and was an active member of Hamilton Park United Methodist Church for over 50 years until her health began to fail. She was honored on her 80th birthday with a surprise celebration given by her children. The following day she was acknowledged at Hamilton Park United Methodist Church during service with all of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren in attendance. She lost her struggle with her illness on Wednesday, November 27,2013, but found joy in the Lord to the end. She is survived and will be deeply missed by her sister in law, Daisy Watson, daughters, Brenda Peters (husband, John Chase) and Shirley Peters, sons, Joe and Oscar Peters (wife, Diane Reed Peters), grandchildren, Bianca Alexander, Christina Martin, LaTasha Edwards, Christopher McGowen and Nathan Rogers, ten great grandchildren and a host of family and friends. Wake will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2013 from 6-8 PM at Restland Funeral Home, 13005 Greenville Ave. in Dallas. Service will be held on Friday, December 6, 2013 at 1 PM at Hamilton Park United Methodist Church, 11881 Schroeder Rd. in Dallas. Family will receive friends on December 6, 2013 at Hamilton Park United Methodist Church after the interment at Restland Memorial Park.
What’s your fondest memory of Thelma?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thelma?
Share a story where Thelma's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thelma you’ll never forget.
How did Thelma make you smile?