Thelma Lou Crabtree

Thelma Lou Crabtree, 77, of Rosemount,  a beloved member of her community and cherished family matriarch, passed away on December 3, 2024, at the SOMC Hospice Center in Portsmouth, Ohio. She was born on December 2, 1947, in New Boston, Ohio, to the late James M. Skaggs and Maggie (Wells) Vicars.

A proud graduate of Glenwood High School in New Boston, Thelma dedicated a significant part of her life to her career, retiring from U.S. Bank. She was known not only for her professional accomplishments but also for her warmth and kindness, which resonated deeply with those who knew her.

Thelma's life was filled with joy and companionship, particularly through her love for family. She married her first husband, Denver Mitchell Wheeler Sr., on September 12, 1964, who predeceased her in 1987. She later married John Crabtree on January 3, 2001; he also passed away in 2021. Thelma held her family close throughout her life, sharing countless unforgettable moments by the pool, surrounded by loved ones.

She is survived by her son, Denver Mitchell Wheeler Jr. of Minford; daughter, Kristin Anderson (Brian) of Rosemount; former daughter-in-law, Kristina Wheeler of Lucasville; sisters, Linda Foster of Washington Courthouse, Kathy Hamilton of Wheelersburg, Vicky Eldridge of Lucasville, and Dee Rickard (Gary) of Point Pleasant, WV. Thelma also leaves her cherished grandchildren: Denver Mitchell Wheeler III, Abbey Martin (Michael), Mitchell King, Megan King, and Brady Anderson, along with her great-grandchildren, Amelia Wheeler and Cooper Martin. As well as many nieces and nephews she loved as her own. 

Thelma was known for her enlivening spirit, which was reflected in her many passions. She had a profound love for her late dogs, Ruby, Gizmo, and Bandit, which brought her immense happiness. Shopping, especially for shoes, was a delightful pastime, and she possessed a remarkable talent for cooking. Although an avid reader and devoted Elvis fan, Thelma found no greater joy than watching her grandchildren's sporting events, cheering for them from the sidelines with all the enthusiasm of a proud grandmother.

She now joins her predeceased family members, including her husband Denver Mitchell Wheeler Sr., husband John Crabtree, brothers Raymond, Jerry, and James "Les" Skaggs, and sister Terry Webb, leaving behind love and memories of a life richly lived that will continue to inspire her family and friends.

Thelma will be dearly missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and family will carry on through her beloved children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as they honor her memory.

The family would like to thank SOMC Hospice for the care and compassion shown to Thelma in the final days of her life. 

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family at D.W. SWICK FUNERAL HOME in New Boston.  Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Franklin Furnace, Ohio.  Online condolences may be left at www.sbentleyfh.com.