Thelma Sarah Holden

Thelma Sarah Holden, daughter of the late John H. Ayres and Floria Payton-Bundick, was born on May 4, 1939, in Accomack County, Virginia. She departed this life on December 18, 2024, at Shore Health and Rehabilitation Center in Parksley, Virginia.
Thelma received her education at Accomack County Public School and worked for the Eastern Shore Seafood Industry for thirteen years.
At an early age, she joined Macedonia Baptist Church in Bloxom, Virginia, under the leadership of the late Rev. Burton. Thelma loved life. She enjoyed being around her family and friends and always giving helping hands to others in need with love, dignity, and respect. Whenever others would see her she always had a beautiful smile that radiated the room and made people comfortable and at ease. Thelma enjoyed traveling to various places with her son, Perry Schoolfield, whom she loved dearly. She enjoyed talking, joking, laughing, and looking at Soap Operas daily. As a wonderful treat to herself, she enjoyed eating at various local restaurants on the Eastern Shore.
In addition to her parents, Thelma was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Handy, and sister, Viola Williams.
Thelma leaves behind cherished memories with her beloved son, Perry Schoolfield; her great-nephew, Wesley Hodge, whom she raised as her own. She is also survived by two grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; five sisters, Shirley Lilliston, Vana Dennis, Mae Davis (Monty), Sadra Bailey, and Bonnie Hinmon; two brothers, Henry Handy (Linda) and Donnie Ayres; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Thelma Sarah Holden (Ayres), please visit our Tree Store.