Thelma M. Raper, age 73 of Elwood, died Sunday July 17, 2011 at her residence after an extended illness. She was born January 13, 1938 in Fairhaven, Ohio the daughter of Clarence C. and Orpha
N. (Starnes) Weatherly. Thelma worked in production for Essex Wire Company in Elwood for several years, and she retired in 1972. She was formerly a member of the First Baptist Church in Elwood. She enjoyed spending time with her family, reading novels, shopping, and driving her car.

Survivors include: 2 Daughters – Annie (husband Mark) Pickering of Frankton and Marla Raper of Elwood; Brother – Cecil C. Weatherly of Richmond; Sister – Joyce Horr of Richmond; 3 Grandchildren – Ashley Marie Curtis of Nashville, TN, Briana Nichole Pickering of Frankton, and Gary Scott Miller of Wabash; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; 3 Sons – Rick L. Miller, Harold Scott Miller, and Gary Miller; Granddaughter – Lacey A. Curtis; and Sister – Edith Darnel.

Thelma's wishes were to have no visitation or public funeral service. Cremation will take place and burial will take place privately by the family at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Vernon Manor Children's Home, 1955 South Vernon Street, Wabash, IN 46992. Online condolences to the family may be made at: www.copherfeslermay.com.