THELMA M. GIBSON, age 86, of Valparaiso, and formerly of Hobart, passed away Friday, September 11, 2015 while surrounded by her family. She was born on December 19, 1928 in Weiner, Arkansas. Thelma retired from the Hobart Post Office as Assistant Post Master and Botanical Gardens as management. She was a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, a former member and officer of the American Legion Post #454 Auxiliary and very committed to the Wounded Warrior Project. Thelma said, "I'm 86 and I'm satisfied with my life."

Thelma is survived by her 3 children, Pat Harris of NC, David (Melody) Gibson of Lake Station, Laura (John) Krsek of Whitestown; grandchildren, Shannon (Karin) Ridgeway, Sarah (Kevin Burnum) Johnson, Sandy Deck, Sam (Natalie Morris) Johnson, Pam (Rick) Shaddix, Nathyn Gibson; 12 great grandchildren; son-in-law, Marty Julian; brother, Jerry Cox of Jonesboro, AR; sister, Ileta (Bobby) Davis of Weiner, AR.

Thelma was preceded in death by her husband, Donald M. Gibson; daughter, Cathy Julian; and parents, John and Iva Cox; brothers, Pete and Ray Cox.

Memorial contributions preferred to VNA Hospice.

A funeral service for Thelma will be Thursday, September 17, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 W. Old Ridge Rd., Hobart with Rev. Scott Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park. Visitation will be Wednesday, September 16, 2015 from 2:00-7:00 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, (219) 942-2109 or online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.