Thelma-Slater-Obituary

Thelma E. Slater

Massillon, Ohio

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Massillon, Ohio

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Thelma E. Slater age 92 of Massillon, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 24, 2013. She was born on June 21, 1921 in Massillon and was the daughter of the late Henry and Malvina (Pesse) Tournay. Thelma was a 1938 graduate of Washington High School, she went on to earn her teaching degree at the former...

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I still think of Thelma and the impact she had on my life. She was a mentor, a teacher, an inspiration and a cherished friend. She was indeed the "First Lady of Literacy" . Remembered still.

Thelma, remembered still and always. So very grateful that we were more than coworkers, we were dear friends.

I was blessed to have you in my life. You are remembered and treasured.

Still remembering Thelma. And always will. Wonderful memories.

What more can I add to these tributes to Thelma?
They each describe her so well and capture her passion for literacy. She was all that these tributes describe and more. A great teacher, a counselor, a mentor, a role model, a relentless advocate for literacy and, of course, a dear friend.
I am a literacy teacher because of Thelma. I am still encouraged and motivated by her spirit. I cherish the memories of her walking into my classroom to visit adult students, always bringing...

On November 27, 2013, Stark County schools were closed. Some people believe that this event was caused by a November snowstorm. I believe that schools were closed in tribute to a petite, white-haired lady who in her lifetime changed education and my life. I was recruited by Thelma in 1980. She guided me to teach adults at Timken High School, Louisville, Smith, the Stark County Regional Correction Center, Indian River and the White Annex. I watched her encouragement and unrelenting drive...

I worked with Thelma years ago on the Mayor's Literacy Commission, and will always remember her dedication, her passion, and her sweet way of persuading others to join the literacy battle. She truly could move mountains, and I, for one, could never say no to her. Rest in Peace, Thelma.

Niall....so sorry to hear of your mother's passing.....she was one of a kind.....one of the sweetest ladies I ever met.....heaven just got a very special angel.....thoughts and players are with you

What a privilege it was to meet Mrs. Thelma Slater during my years at Canton City Schools. Aside from everyone singing their praises about her, I remember her smiling face, her reassurance, her guidance - whether educational or personal
and her professionalism. Our earthly educator and dear friend has a new calling to Heaven. It will be a reassuring feeling to know she will always be watching over each and everyone of us, providing the guidance she was so well known for.
God bless...