Thelma Louise Persons, a woman of enduring faith, unshakable strength, and unwavering love for her family and friends.

Born on January 5, 1944, in Perote, Alabama, Thelma was the cherished daughter of Mary Magdalene Jones-Hollis and Elmo Jones, and stepdaughter to Robert Hollis, all of whom preceded her in death.  She was the beloved granddaughter of Alma Mason Pitts and Joe W. Pitts, whose influence helped shape the woman she became.

Thelma spent much of her life in Ontario, New York, before settling in Avon Park, Florida, where she continued to build her life.  She was once married to John Person, who preceded her in death.

Raised in the Baptist Church, Thelma's faith was her foundation.  Later in life, she attended a Pentecostal church, where she found spiritual friends and connections.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter Velma Jean Hollis, and her siblings Robert Hollis Jr., Bobbie Jean Hollis and Josephus Jones Sr.

Thelma is lovingly survived by her daughter Fannie Mae Fair-Hollis and her siblings: Naomi Gallivan, John Henry Pitts (Boot), Donita Marie Hollis, Dora Pope-Hollis, Larry Dean Hollis, Ricky Dean Hollis, Nathaniel Hollis, Robert James Hollis, Neil Hollis, and her brother-in-law Clifford Manning.

She was a proud grandmother to Jacklyn Hollis, Chitara Fair, and Xsavier Leon Fair, and a cherished great-grandmother to Sudia Hollis, Jazanai Fair, Tranaija Lyons, Chevy Howard, Parizse Hollis, Sky Howard, Tylee Fair and Ty Xsavier Persons.

In addition to her children and grandchildren, Thelma played a special role in helping to rise her nieces Karen Jones, Lagatha Butler Jones, Tammy Hollis-Moore and her great-nieces Jaqunda Hollis and Keyshira Hollis, offering them love and guidance.

She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were deeply impacted by her love and presence.  Thelma lovingly took in and cared for many children and individuals throughout her life, always making them feel like part of the family, offering them love and guidance.  She never showed favoritism, treating everyone with equal love, respect, and kindness.  Her willingness to go above and beyond for those who entered her life was a true reflection of her selfless spirit and nurturing soul.

Beyond her role as a beloved mother, grandmother, and sister, Thelma lived a life full of simple joys.  She loved fishing, found peace and happiness in music, and had a passion for traveling.

Thelma Louise Person was a nurturer, a believer, and a woman whose life stood as a testament to grace and quiet resilience.   Her faith unwavering and her love was never in short supply.

She will be missed beyond words and remembered with deep affection by all who knew her.

Friends and family are invited to attend her graveside service on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 1 PM at Furnaceville Cemetery, 2820 Tremble Rd. Ontario, NY 14519.

To share a special memory please visit www.murphyfuneralservices.com.