Thelma Houston 76, of rural Patoka passed away February 15, 2026 at her family farm surrounded by her family. She was the daughter of Fred Donald and Opal (Belcher) Adams on June 25, 1949 in Centralia. She married John “Tom” Houston on November 14, 1969 at the Fairman Baptist Church.
Thelma is survived by her beloved husband, Tom Houston; children, Essie Houston & fiancé Rob Pursley, John R. Houston, and wife Stephanie and Gib Houston all of Patoka; cherished grandchildren, Trenten Smith, John A. Houston and wife Alyssa , Jeremy Smith, and Nickole Houston, and her first great grandchild due in April; sisters, Mary Basola, Wanda Rybicki; sisters-in-law, Flora Payne Cain, Joan Binnion, brothers-in law, Bucky Pulver; family friend Mark Shepard, many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Opal Adams; sister, Donna Winkler, Patsy & Doug Piercy; brother Darrel Adams, Lonnie Adams; brothers-in-law, Lewis Basola, Vincent Rybicki, Wes Cain, James Payne, Gary Binnion and Edward L. Houston; sister-in-law, Rose Mary Pulver.
For 25 years, Thelma worked faithfully on the family farm. It was not easy work, but Thelma carried it with quiet determination and pride. The farm was more than a livelihood, but a testament to a deep commitment to providing for those she loved. In addition for 20 years, she was also devoted to her work at Murray Center as a life of service and care for others. Thelma’s life was rooted in hard work and compassion. Her love at Murray was constant and selfless in all she did for the residents.
Above all, Thelma was a loving and dedicated wife and mother. She poured her heart into raising her children and grandchildren. She offered guidance, comfort, and steady support throughout every season of life. Whether at home, on the farm, or at work Thelma left a legacy of kindness and strength that will live on with all who knew her.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Day Macz Funeral Home in Patoka with Pastor Reed Tallman officiating. Interment will follow at Pratt Cemetery in Patoka. A visitation time for family and friends will be from 9:00 A.M. until the time of service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Pratt Cemetery and will be accepted at the funeral home. Online condolences and memories of Thelma may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
