Thelma Louise Robbins Dillon
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Private family graveside services for Thelma Louise Robbins Dillon, 93, Lawrence will be held at Washington Creek Cemetery in rural Douglas County. She passed away Wednesday, January 7, 2015 at Arbor Court (formerly Drury Place).
Thelma was born December 13, 1921 in Williamsburg, KS the daughter of Lloyd Jacob Robbins, Sr. and Emmeline Rebbecca Pingree Robbins.
She graduated from Appanoose High School in Franklin County in 1939. She then attended Ottawa University.
She taught for five years at rural Minneola School in Franklin County. She then worked as a secretary to Dean Lelon Capps in elementary education and Dean Karl Edwards in secondary education at the University of Kansas. She later was Executive Secretary to Dr. Richard Schiefelbusch and Dr. Stephen Schroeder at the Bureau of Child Research and The Institute for Life Span Studies at the University of Kansas from 1968 until she retired in March 1991.
She married LaVerne Eugene “Bud” Dillon December 31, 1943 in Lawrence. He preceded her in death April 8, 2008.
She and Bud spent many wonderful years together raising cattle, milking, gardening, and farming.
Survivors include two daughters, Judy Ann Dillon Elliott, Lecompton, KS and Linda Mae Dillon Madl, Merriam, KS; three grandchildren, Tracy Harmon, Overbrook, KS, James Hazelet, Parker, KS, Kelly Eggers, Frisco, TX; five great grandchildren, Cole and Jodie Hazelet, Brandon Elston, Colton and Cayden Harmon; and three sisters, Nina Bainer, Fremont, CA, Mabel Gilliland, Ottawa, KS, Shirley Simmons, Ottawa, KS. She was also preceded in death by her first born grandson, Greg Dillon Smith; two sisters, Betty Susan Robbins and Florence Gamet; and one brother, Lloyd J. Robbins, Jr.
Family will greet friends from 3–5 p.m. Saturday, January 10, 2015 at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence.
Memorial contributions may be made in her name to Washington Creek Church and may be sent in care of the mortuary.
Linda and Judy-Thinking of you today and remembering all the good times at your Mom and Dad’s house. Your Mom had such an infectious laugh.
Dear Judy ,Linda and families,
So very sad to hear the news of dear Thelma’s passing.
It was very strange to receive the email this morning,as just yesterday, I received a lovely card from her, thanking me for the birthday wishes and wishing me a Happy New Year!
I have fond memories of breakfasts at “The country kitchen” with both Thelma and Bud. Also, of long walks hunting for mushrooms.
Condolences to you all.
Kate Jones
Judy, Linda and Family:
I met your mother more than fifty years ago when I worked on the KU campus…we both worked in Bailey Hall.When she found out I was from Ottawa, we became immediate friends, lunched together many days and walked the campus together. She knew my parents and many family members. I kept in touch with her through the years and dearly loved her personality. She was one of the finest, most loving people I have ever met. I feel blessed to have known her through the years. My most sincere condolences to all the family…..may God be close and guide you at this most difficult time.
Judy and Linda and family…
We want you to know we are thinking of you. Thelma meant the world to Dad and he was so fortunate to have her help and support for all those many years. I remember going to see Dad in his office, and I was always met by her warm greeting and smiling face. She was a dear friend of Dad’s, and I know he has an abundance of fond memories and gratitude for her many acts of support and kindness. We wish you comfort and peace
No heart breaks alone for God is always near. When a prayer is whispered God is always there to hear. When sorrow’s overwhelming, He comforts tenderly. A single tear never falls that he does not hear.(Psalms 65:2) Sorry for your loss.
Wonderful picture and tribute for a wonderful, loving sister. How we will miss you, dear Thelma!
So many wonderful childhood memories of your mom. She was always so much fun to be around. I remember once how much she laughed when I tried to milk a cow – not very successfully! She was loved and will be missed.
Our family is so very sorry for your loss. It was so wonderful to meet Thelma and share stories when our family came through Kansas a few years back- truly a wonderful woman. She remains in our hearts.
-Russ, Emily, and Lillian