Thelma Elizabeth Hance, 93 of Bristol, VT passed away peacefully on March 18, 2021 surrounded by loving family. She was born on May 29, 1927 in Burlington, VT, daughter of Rene G. LaCross and Cecilia Rayata.
Thelma made many treasured friends wherever she went. Her kindness drew people to her and many friends became family in her eyes. She always had a giving heart and spirit. She enjoyed reading, spending time with family, and listening to music with her husband Paul. Thelma was wonderfully devoted to her faith; she drew strength from this often. She truly was a kind and gentle soul.
When Thelma was 17, she met the love of her life, Paul, while ice skating. They were married a few years later in North Carolina where Paul was serving in the U.S Army. Thelma and Paul enjoyed 73 years of marriage; their deep faith in each other and god offered them strength throughout their lives.
Thelma took much pride in her working career; she worked at the Howard Bank as an assistant Trust Officer for many years. Once retired, she volunteered on many committees at St. Ambrose Catholic Church and enjoyed traveling to religious destinations with her husband Paul.
Thelma is predeceased by her husband Paul E. Hance Sr., her daughter Donna Hance, daughter Sharon Williams, son Stephen J. Hance, son Paul E. Hance Jr., and two grandsons Herman Voigt and Phillip Voigt. She is also predeceased by four siblings Rene, Pauline, Robert, and Janet.
Thelma is survived by her brother Donald (Keri) LaCross of St. Albans, VT, daughter Joan (Halsey) Dunton of Afton, TN and daughter Christine (Lynn) Willis of Batesburg, SC. She also leaves behind her treasured grandchildren Cindy, Halsey, Rebecca, Melissa, Donnie, Brian, Jessica, Stephen and many great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren.
A Catholic Mass will be held for Thelma on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at 11AM at St. Ambrose Catholic church in Bristol, VT. Graveside services will be held at a later date.
To send online condolences to her family please visit www.brownmcclayfuneralhomes.com In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Ambrose Catholic church food pantry (Bristol, VT) in memory of Thelma.
Jessica and Family , I am so sorry for your loss, her love shines around you.
I am so sorry to read of Aunt Thelma’s passing. I am out of state so I’m sorry I won’t be able to attend the services. Thinking of you all at this very sad time.
Christine and Joan, so sad to hear of your mom’s passing. I know that she had a long and wonderful life and you will miss her dearly. Having recently moved to Colorado, I won’t be able to attend her services, but am thinking of you.
Your cousin
So sorry to hear of Aunt Thelma’s passing. I have lived out of state for over 40 years, but remember the fun we had all playing together. My deepest sympathy.
Karen LaCross Darrow
In my thoughts.
Many family members. Thoughts and Prayers to you all during this difficult time. I have lots and lots of memories of Aunt Thelma and Uncle Paul.
Gatherings with family in Bristol. She is having a Blessed reunion with her family that has gone before her. You are at peace now no more struggles. Love you Aunt Thelma.
To the entire Hance Family:
Thelma and Paul were friends that we enjoyed sharing a pizza and/or ice cream sandwiches with. They would always have the Schweppes ginger ale ready. Our last visit with Thelma was at Our Lady of Providence, where she enjoyed our visit. We can still see her waving goodbye from her “apartment” window as we drove away. We hope you cherish the memories. With sympathy and friendship.
Donald and Cheryl Godard (Bristol, VT)