Thelma Grassgreen

Thelma Grassgreen, born on July 7, 1936, a beacon of kindness and love, passed away on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

Thelma was married to her beloved Irwin for sixty-six years. They met in Brooklyn, New York, where they were married on February 12, 1955. They then moved to Rockaway, New York, to begin their life, and grow what would be their beautiful family. Thelma’s small stature earned her the lifelong nickname “Tiny,” but her heart was immense, and overflowed with love. She spent her life in dedication to her family, caring for foster children, and helping single mothers find work and stability. She opened her home and heart to family and strangers alike, sharing her gracious, loving spirit, and her delicious family recipes. She created a home in which traditions were upheld and family ties were strengthened. In 1984, she devoted her life to the Lord. Tiny moved through her life as Jesus did, sharing the word of God, love, and joy with all who knew her. Scary movies and Turner Classic Movies were her favorite! She also enjoyed basket weaving and making beaded jewelry.

Thelma was preceded in death by her parents, Abraham and Eva Feldman; her husband, Irwin Grassgreen; sisters, Florence Weiss, Marilyn Thomas and Rosalie Plemondon; and her great-granddaughter, Sutton Myers.

She is survived by her children, Linda Wikarek (Peter Wikarek) of Old Fort, North Carolina, Errol Grassgreen of Morganton, North Carolina, Martin Grassgreen (Stacy Weinstein Grassgreen) of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Leonard Grassgreen (Keri Grassgreen) of Greenacres, Florida, and Beatrice Zielinski (Rick Zielinski) of Palm Coast, Florida; brother, Samuel Feldman of Palm Coast, Florida; grandchildren, Peter Wikarek, Heather Kaderlik, Alexandra Zwiers, Natasha Weiringa, Alanna Grassgreen, Nikia Grassgreen, Brooke Grassgreen and Sean Stang; great-grandchildren, Ocean Kaderlik, East Kaderlik, Zyra Zwiers, Kenzi Wieringa, Roxan Grassgreen and Hayden Myers; and by beloved nieces and nephews, and cousins.

Thelma, Tiny, Mom, Grandma, Bubby, G-ma, and Aunt, we love you and will miss your earthly presence, but we carry you in our hearts and thoughts every day.

A service will be held at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery at two o’clock the afternoon of January 9, 2025.

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