Thelma Phillips Hill was born on December 25, 1930 to Ed and Hattie Bell Phillips. After Thelma's arrival, a few hours later her parents were blessed and pleasantly surprised by the arrival of her twin brother, Delma. The family lovingly nicknamed the twins "Sister" and "Sonny". The twins were born in the family home located on Peoria & Virgin Avenue. The home was located in a Black neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma that was still recovering from the 1921 Tulsa riots.
Ed and Hattie Bell had 6 children, three of which proceeded Thelma in death: Mary Frances, Lillie Bee and Fletcher.
In 1936, the family moved to Sand Springs, Oklahoma where the twins attended Booker T. Washington (K-12) school.
In 1946, Thelma met and married James Banks Sr. and moved to Chula Vista, California. They lived there for several years then decided to make the move to Harbor City, California. To this union three children were born: James Jr. (Buddy), Brenda and Joan. James Sr., Buddy and Brenda all proceeded Thelma in death.
Thelma retired from Hi Shear Aircraft in Harbor City after 27 years of service.
In 1992, Thelma married Jimmie Hill, who proceeded her in death.
Thelma leaves to cherish her memory, her beloved and dedicated daughter Joan (Larry) Poullard; her twin brother Delma (Jeanne) Phillips; her sister Barbara Dotson; four grandchildren: Tyesha Akshay James-Marshall, Detwan James Sr. (Daniella James), Nigel (Denise) James Sr. and James Banks III; eight great grandchildren: Nigel James Jr. (who proceeded Thelma in death), Ronesha Askew, Keyshawn Askew, Tyreek Marshall, Tyrese Marshall; Detwan James 1, Detwan James 2, Deijah James and Syniyah James; one great-great grandchild: De'Jah Pickett II and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
We're sure that Thelma, Buddy & Jimmie have found a good fishing hole.
Rest in Peace & Love
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