Thelma Warr

Thelma Warr, a pillar of faith and family, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2024, at the age of 99. Born in Yazoo, Mississippi on May 22, 1925, Thelma's life was a testament to unwavering love, dedication, and a deep commitment to her community.

Thelma's journey began amidst the warmth of a loving family. She was the fourth of five children born to Millie Clark Hubbard and Robert Hubbard, and her siblings, Corinne, Fountain, Prentiss, and Willie, were a constant source of love and support. Though raised by her grandparents, Fannie King Clark and Horace Greeley Clark, Thelma's presence brought a unique joy to their home. She was the only grandchild of numerous grandchildren chosen to live with their grandparents. To this day, the question as to why she was chosen remains a mystery.

At the tender age of 14, Thelma embarked on a new chapter, moving to Memphis to live with her Uncle and Aunt Burrell and Pearl Clark. This move was fueled by her endearing love for their son, her cousin Harold Clark, a testament to the strong bonds of family that guided her life. In Memphis, Thelma found a new home, a new school – Booker T. Washington High School – and a new love. It was here that she met her childhood sweetheart, William (""Weanie"") Warr, who lived just a few houses away on Cannon Street. Thelma and William's journey together was a testament to love and devotion. They graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1944, and five years later, on July 17, 1949, they were united in holy matrimony by the Reverend A. McEwen Williams, Pastor Emeritus of St. John Baptist Church. Their union blossomed into a family of four, with the birth of William (Billy) Otis Jr. (Pamela) and David Ernest.

Thelma's life was defined by her unwavering faith. A devout member of St. John Baptist Church for over eight decades, she touched the lives of countless individuals. She served in numerous roles, including Sunday School teacher, a member of the Willing Workers Club, Rebecca Class, the Food Service Ministry, and Vacation Bible School Assistant. Her faith was a guiding light, a source of strength, and a testament to her unwavering belief in the power of God.

As a homemaker, Thelma embodied the spirit of love and nurturing. She took immense pride in providing the best for her family, ensuring her sons and grandchildren received the finest education and opportunities. She encouraged their participation in extracurricular activities, fostering their talents in music, sports, and travel. Her kitchen was a haven of warmth and delicious aromas, where she lovingly prepared her famous homemade rolls, peach cobbler, macaroni and cheese, and turnip greens, inviting family and friends to share in her culinary delights.

A woman of boundless curiosity and a zest for life, Thelma traveled the world, visiting four of the seven continents – Asia, North America, Europe, and Africa. Her most memorable trips were to Dakar and Ziguinchor, Senegal; London, England; Paris, France; and Shanghai, Beijing, and Xi'an, China. While in Beijing, she celebrated her 87th birthday, a testament to her enduring spirit and love for adventure.

Thelma remained an active and vibrant member of the Booker T. Washington Class of 1944 up until circa 2015. It is believed she was one of two remaining members of the class.

Thelma was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 37 years, William O. Warr, Sr. She leaves behind a legacy of love and faith, cherished by her two sons, six grandchildren – LaKeysha), Mahlon, Giron, William, and Jordan (Mollie); twenty great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; her 100-year-old brother-in-law, Robert Ernest Warr of Silver Spring, MD; nieces Lorraine Hubbard, Buelah Woods, and nephews Reverend Calvin Hubbard, her beloved cousins Patricia Clark Ellis (Patsy), Ronald Clark (Kathi), Harold Clark, Jr., and Michael Clark (Kelly); cousin Velma Coleman (St. Louis);cousin Walter Clark (Emma) and a host of relatives too numerous to name.

Until her passing, Thelma was the longest-serving, eldest, and active member of St. John Baptist Church. Her life was a testament to her faith, family, and community. She lived a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. Her memory will forever be cherished, her spirit will continue to inspire, and her love will remain a guiding light for generations to come.

VISITATION
Friday
23
Aug
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
St. John Baptist Church
640 Vance Avenue
Memphis, TN 38126

SERVICE
Friday
23
Aug
11:00 AM
St. John Baptist Church
640 Vance Avenue
Memphis, TN 38126

COMMITTAL SERVICE
Friday
23
Aug
2:00 PM
Memphis National Cemetery
3568 Townes Ave.
Memphis, TN 38122

Cemetery Details
LOCATION
Memphis National Cemetery
3568 Townes Ave.
Memphis, TN 38122

Serenity Funeral Home, 1638 Sycamore View Rd., Memphis, TN 38134, Tel. (901) 379-0861.