THELMA EDNA STANLEY, age 87, of Worthington, received a call on January 18, 2017. This call included an offer that she couldn’t refuse, for an appointment from which she will not be returning. This comes with a Huge sign-on bonus; a reunion with family and friends that she has not seen in a long time! This mission takes her to where she will be socializing, watching sports from the best seat in the house and enjoying relaxation to her hearts content. Music, laughter and love are all guaranteed!

Thelma was born December 15, 1929, in Murray County, to Herman and Bertha (Graf) Gerdes. She attended rural school for eight years, later entering Worthington High School and graduating in 1948.

In 1957, Thelma was united in marriage to Cecil Stanley. He passed away in 1979. She was a member of 4-H for twelve years. Thelma worked for the Egg Company, candling eggs for eighteen years. She then worked for Sather’s, in Round Lake, for thirty years. She also worked at Prairie House until her battle with lung cancer no longer allowed her to work.

She was a member of Solid Rock Assembly of God Church, in Worthington, where she taught Sunday School, was involved with Project Group and Friendship Club. She loved horses, collecting rocks and stamps, sports and being with her family.

Thelma is survived by her three sons, Tim (Della) Stanley Sr., Worthington; Ken Stanley, Worthington; David (Jackie) Stanley, Paulina, IA; many grandchildren; great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; step grandchildren; and step great grandchildren; two sisters, Fidelis "Fudge" Hartle, Slayton; JoAnn Bakker, Worthington; brother, Alfred (Marlene) Gerdes, Milford, IA; aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Cecil; grandparents; an infant daughter, Rebecca in 1957; grandson, Kayo Bixby, in 1980; a great grandchild; brother, Arnold Gerdes; and a brother-in-law, Robert Hartle.

   Visitation will be Sunday, from 4-7 pm, at the Dingmann Funeral Home in Worthington; and also one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday. Funeral will be Monday at 11 am at the Solid Rock Assembly of God Church, in Worthington, officiated by Pastor Scott Peterson. A private family burial will take place at a later date.

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