Thelma F. Smay

SMAY – Thelma F., 93, St. Michael, died peacefully February 28, 2024, at Forest Hills Personal Care Home surrounded by loving family.  Born January 1, 1931, in Sidman, daughter of Elmer E. and Lottie (Miller) Johnson.  

Preceded in death by parents; husband, Richard A. “Yogi Bear” Smay, who died April 15, 2017; infant daughter, Shirley; grandson, Anthony Smay; sister, Dorothy Skrajnar; brothers, Darle, Willard, Wayne, and Carl “Jim” Johnson.

Survived by sons, Barry Smay (Kathleen Blanchetti), and Rodney (Joan Martin); grandchildren, Shawn, Tiffany (Trevor), Richard, Tara, and Tawny (Paul); great grandchildren; Alexis, Makenzie, Riley, Lucas, Marshall, Carter, Mason, Josephine, Naomi, and Miles; and special niece, Tammy.

Thelma was a member of Lake Union Evangelical Church, South Fork. She lived by the belief that life is an adventure, meant to be embraced with curiosity and enthusiasm. A source of compassion and comfort to many; she was a caring nurse’s aide at Sharon’s Personal Care Home for many years. She had a commitment to service, particularly through her active involvement in the fire company auxiliary for St. Michael and Cambria County; helping organize fundraisers, coordinate events, and serving on various committees. Thelma taught us that just like the plants and gardens she cared for, we all need room to grow, moments of sunlight, and the occasional gentle rain.

Friends will be received from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday and from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. Monday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork, her granddaughter, the Reverend Tawny Bernhardt, presiding. Interment, Mount Union Cemetery. 

Special thanks to Diane and Doreen and the staff of Forest Hills Personal Care Home and AseraCare Hospice, for their kindness and care. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to Adams Township Volunteer Fire Company #2, P.O. Box 368, St. Michael, PA 15951.