Thelma Albiston Thornley

SMITHFIELD—Thelma Albiston Thornley, 89, passed away peacefully in her home March 28, 2008. She was born December 1, 1918, in Cardston, Alberta, Canada. She was the first of nine children born to Wilford James and Mary Edith Olsen Albiston. Shortly after birth, her family moved to College Ward, Utah. Thelma attended Cache County schools and graduated from South Cache High in 1937. She married Nathan Donn Thornley in the Logan LDS Temple December 14, 1938. After their marriage, she and her husband worked together to establish a successful dairy farm. Donn passed away October 24, 1994. Thelma was a gifted cook, housekeeper, and seamstress. She was very well-known for her star quilts. From 1982-2005 she made over 2, 673 quilts. She was an active member of the LDS Church and served in various callings, including Relief Society president and Young Women's president. She also contributed numerous hours of service to the community through several different organizations. One of Thelma's greatest strengths was her tender heart. She absolutely adored children. This love was shown in her early years as she helped her mother care for and raise her eight siblings. This love could be seen up until the last days of her life as she always took time to play with and spend time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Harry and Rhonda Gephart of Tremonton; Dennis Thornley of Smithfield; Paul and Bonnie Jean Thornley of Colorado Springs, CO; and Lyle and Kathy Thornley of Nibley. She has ten grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are three sisters and one brother: Kathryn Hurren, Kuna, ID; Doris Mayne, Logan; Alice Nielsen, Farmington, UT; and Steven Karma Albiston, College Ward. She was preceded in death by her husband, two brothers, Spencer and James, and two sisters, Marva and LuDene. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon Wednesday, April 2, 2008, at the Smithfield 14th Ward Chapel, 345 E. 300 S.A viewing will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday evening at Nelson Funeral Home 85 S. Main, Smithfield and from 10-11:30 a.m. Wednesday prior to services at the church. Burial will be in the Smithfield City Cemetery.