Thelma I. (McKinzie) Searles

Thelma I. Searles, age 95, of Andrews, IN, passed away on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at Markle Health & Rehabilitation Center, Markle, IN.

Thelma was born on December 20, 1927, in Roanoke, IN, to the late Clifton S. and Grace (Phiester) McKinzie. Thelma married Arthur E. Searles on July 4, 1954, and he preceded her in death on December 16, 2020.  

Thelma was a 1946 graduate of Roanoke High School. She worked at Wabash Magnetics from 1966-1990 and later worked at Long John Silver’s for over 13 years. She was a past member of Eagles Lodge and Moose Lodge, both of Huntington, and a member of the Women’s International Bowling Congress.  Thelma enjoyed bowling, bingo, crocheting, and she made lap blankets for many people, and she enjoyed puzzles and loved to read.

Thelma is survived by three daughters, Cynthia Anderson, Andrews, IN, Patricia Bartrom, Huntington, IN, Carol (Bill) Graham, Atlanta, MO; one brother, Chris McKinzie, Atlanta, MO; one sister, Jeanette Harris, Rogers, AR; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

Along with her parents and husband she was preceded in death by one son, John Searles; two daughters, Mary Searles, Anna Madaris; three brothers, Eldon McKinzie, Phillip McKinzie, Ervin McKinzie; two sisters, Erma Duits, Juanita Netzley; two grandchildren, Donald Karst, Jr., Cassie Simmerman; and four great grandchildren, Katelynn England, Quinn Simmerman, William Atha and Joslyn Brown.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, August 28, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a 2:00 p.m. Funeral Service at McElhaney Funeral Home, 715 N. Jefferson Street, Huntington, IN, 46750.

Graveside services and burial will be at Mt. Etna Cemetery, Huntington, IN.

Memorials can be made to the Cassie Simmerman Scholarship Fund with checks made to Nathaniel Simmerman in care of McElhaney Funeral Home, 715 N. Jefferson Street, Huntington, IN 46750.

McElhaney Funeral Home, 715 N. Jefferson St., Huntington, IN is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences:    www.mcelhaneyhartfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thelma I. (McKinzie) Searles, please visit our floral store.