Thelma A. (Matson) Bailey

A loving mother and grandmother, Thelma Ann Bailey died in her home at the age of 84 on September 21st, 2017 after a brave and fierce battle with multiple myeloma.  Thelma was predeceased by her parents Laura C. and Robert D. Matson as well as her brother Robert C. Matson.  Thelma is survived by her devoted twin sister, Theresa M. Matson who remained at her side offering love and support until the very end.  Thelma is also survived by her daughter Jennifer de Souza and her three beloved grandchildren Samara, Serafina and Saphira.   A special nephew, Robert M. Matson and his wife Rose were faithful and dedicated companions.  She is also survived by her nephew Richard Matson and his wife Deborah as well as many nieces and nephews that she adored.  Thelma graduated from Binghamton North High School in 1952 where she was Vice President of her graduating class and went on to work in the office at Dairylea as well as at Garbade Grubham Construction.  Thelma’s most notable role was that of homemaker, mother and grandmother where she excelled and took great pride in preparing delicious home cooked meals and treats.  As her illness progressed, seeing her grandchildren regularly gave her a strong sense of purpose and brought great joy to her life.  Thelma was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Binghamton and through her faith remained ever hopeful that she would ultimately prevail over her disease.  Always a lady, there was never a kinder soul to walk the face of this earth than Thelma Bailey; she touched the lives of everyone who knew her with her spirit and grace.  Thelma asked very little of this world and took even less.  The legacy of the spirit she imparted will live on for generations; she will be deeply missed by all.  The family would like to thank Dr. Joseph Readling for his expertise and compassion in extending the time we had to share with Thelma in this life.   

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