Thelma K. Dickerson

Weslaco - Thelma Katherine Tidwell Dickerson, 94, passed peacefully into the arms of her savior, Jesus Christ, on September 10, 2025 at her home surrounded by family.

She was born March 11, 1931 in Weslaco, Texas to Herbert and Katherine Tidwell. Thelma was the only daughter among six children. Although her family's roots were in Alabama, she spent most of her life in San Perlita and Weslaco. From an early age she embraced the values of faith, family and hard work that shaped her life.

In high school at San Perlita, Thelma met the love of her life, Utah. She was a cheerleader and he was captain of the football team. They married in 1950 shortly after graduation and began farming in Beeville. In 1954 they moved to Hargill to farm land rented from Rio Farms. In 1959 they moved to Weslaco and built their lifelong farming career. For 71 years, Thelma stood beside Utah as his partner in every sense - his support, strength and constant companion in life and work.

Thelma worked from sunup to sundown while balancing the farm with her home and family. Her hands were never idle. She painted, wallpapered, sewed, quilted, canned and cooked. She loved reading and enjoyed square dancing with Utah, where they made many lifelong friends. Her home radiated warmth and hospitality. Guests were always welcome, and she often served meals for twenty or more, complete with her homemade pies. Holidays and special occasions were filled with joy, laughter and memories her grandchildren still treasure.

Faith was the cornerstone of Thelma's life. She and Utah raised their family in the First Baptist Churches of Hargill and Weslaco and she also taught Sunday School at Iglesia Bautista in Weslaco. She instilled in her children a deep love for Jesus. As her children grew, she became active in 4-H, teaching sewing and cooking and helping organize floats for the Mercedes Livestock Show.

Thelma had a nurturing spirit and cared for her in-laws, her parents and many nieces and nephews who found comfort in her home. Each remembers her as "our mama." She leaves behind a legacy of faith, love and service that touched many lives.

Thelma is preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Utah, daughters Myra Mae Belcher (husband Tim) and Nita Kay Brown (husband Cisco), parents Herbert and Katherine Tidwell, in-laws, Lavonia and Gordon Richardson, and brothers Frank, Herbert, Johnny Burton and James Howard.

Thelma is survived by daughters Andrea Lea Jalufka (husband David), Belinda Turner, her son, Barry Dickerson (wife Linda), 18 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

Thelma's family is joyfully celebrating today. After a long battle with Alzheimer's, our beloved mother and grandmother is with Jesus.

A private family memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Myra Belcher Memorial Fund at the First Baptist Church of Weslaco, 600 South Kansas Ave. Weslaco, TX 78596.