Obituaries: Thelma R. Whipple (Jan. 31, 1925 – March 20, 2011)

Thelma R. Whipple, born on January 31, 1925, in Del Norte County, passed away on March 20, 2011, in Smith River. She was born to Ed Richards Jr. and Alice Richards.

Thelma was an avid bingo player, enjoyed going to garage sales with her sister Phyllis, attending elder dinners, pow wows and family activities. She will be missed by all who knew her and loved her.

Thelma is survived by her children Valerie Ann Thompson (Jim) of Bayside, Gaylene Mendiola (Ray) and Toni Whipple, both of Crescent City, Sunnae Walker (Duane) and Kathy Whipple, both of Smith River, and Tracie Whipple of Crescent City.

Grandchildren Tallie, Robert, Rick, Effie, Lexie, Lucinda, and Baby Dee, Reggie, Johnny, Larry Jr., Jennifer, Clifton, Katrina, Charlie, Kristina and Michael.

Siblings Edwin Richards, Phyllis Covey, William Richards (Viola), and Florene J. Travis (Rick) and sister-in-law Shirley Richards. Numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Thelma was preceded in death by husband Charlie R. Whipple, son Calvin Whipple, and grandson Johnathan Thompson, brothers Calvin Richards, Allen Richards and Murray Richards.

Visitation will be held at Wier’s Mortuary Chapel on Wednesday, March 23, from noon until 5 p.m., and on Thursday, March 24, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Celebration of Life services will be held at Wier’s Mortuary Chapel on Thursday, March 24, at 1 p.m.

Interment will follow at the Howonquet Indian Cemetery in Smith River. Fellowship and potluck will be held at the Howonquet Indian Community Center following services.

Contributions may be made in Thelma’s memory to the American Cancer Society, 1301 Northcrest Drive, Crescent City, CA 95531

Arrangements are under the direction of Wier’s Mortuary Chapel of Crescent City.

— Submitted by Wier’s Mortuary Chapel