Thelma A. Larkins

Thelma A. Larkins, 91, of Oquawka, IL died at 4:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at her home.

She was born May 5, 1923 in Springfield, IL the daughter of Julius and Pearl (Gomez) Bushong. She was raised and educated in Oquawka and Galesburg, graduating from Carl Sandburg College.

Thelma married William Larkins in Kahoka, MO on May 3, 1941 and he died Aug. 25, 1980.

She was a nurse at Community Memorial Hospital in Monmouth, the Henderson County Health Dept. in Oquawka and nursing homes in the area. She last worked for the Oak Lane Nursing Home in Stronghurst for 12 ? years before retiring.

Thelma enjoyed gardening, flowers, spending time with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. She also enjoyed traveling, sewing, crafts and reading.

She was a member of the Oquawka Methodist Church, a 4-H leader for 18 years, Girl Scout leader for 10 years and volunteered at several places.

Survivors include her son, William (Bonnie) Larkins III of Orion, IL.; daughter, Diane Meldrum of Oquawka; 11 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 8 great great grandchildren; brother, Stewart (Mary) Bushong of Monmouth; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Duane Larkins; daughter Susan Gilbert ; 1 great granddaughter; 3 brothers, Paul Bushong, Julius "Blackie" Bushong and Louis "Bud" Turner; 2 sisters, Lucille Tinker and Marjorie McGraw.

Cremation has been accorded. No services are planned at this date. A private interment in Biggsville Cemetery will occur at a later date. Memorials may be given to D.A.V, Help Hospital Veterans or Am-Vets. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory in Monmouth is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com.