Thelma Ellen Zimdars

Thelma Ellen Zimdars, age 94, of Mason, Illinois passed away at 8:50 am, Friday, September 5, 2025, at the HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital in Effingham, Illinois.

She was born on November 12, 1930, in Newton, the daughter of Elza J. and Dessie Myrtle O'Dell (Scammahorn) McKinney. She was united in marriage to Ervin Zimdars on December 23, 1950, and they shared 45 years of marriage before he preceded her in death on June 4, 1996.

Throughout her life, Thelma dedicated herself to her family, working primarily at home on the family farm alongside her husband. Together, they nurtured their children and managed the land with unwavering commitment and care. Thelma's devotion to her family inspired all around her and forged deep bonds with those she loved.

An avid gardener, Thelma found joy in tending to her flowerbeds and growing a bountiful garden. Her love for flowers brightened many days, and her culinary skills brought family together around the dinner table, where she prepared hearty meals that resonated with love. In her later years, she found great happiness attending the Edgewood Opry, immersing herself in the music she adored.

Most significantly, Thelma cherished watching her grandchildren engage in sports. Her passion for supporting them in their endeavors was evident in her attendance at their games, where her enthusiastic cheers resonated proudly for all to hear.

Thelma is survived by her son: Randy (Shelly) Zimdars of Mason; 3 grandchildren: Colby Zimdars, Kylie (Dakota) Huber, and Cody Zimdars; 1 great-granddaughter: Kaisley Huber; 1 daughter-in-law: Mary Jo Zimdars of Elliotstown, Illinois; 2 sisters: Syliva Mardis of Decatur, Illinois and Nellie Blair of Decatur, Illinois. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Thelma was preceded in death by her parents; a son: Darrel Zimdars; 2 sisters: Faye Farris, Catherine Bushe; 3 brothers: Dean McKinney, Willard McKinney, Charles McKinney.

Memorial services to celebrate Thelma's life will be held at 3:00 pm, Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville with Caleb Baker officiating. Visitation will be held on Sunday afternoon at the funeral home from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Thelma's memory to the North Clay Sports Boosters.

The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is honored to be entrusted with the family's care and the arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or to share a memory of story of Thelma, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.