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Thelma Lucille Saladin

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Thelma Lucille Saladin, 94, met her Saviour and Lord on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2020. She was residing at The Seasons Assisted Living in Reno, Nev. Born Sep. 16, 1925, to Ellis and Opal (Felts) Tinsley in Hemphill, Texas, she was the oldest of four girls. In 1937, the family moved to California for better opportunities. In the logging camp of Tionesta, Calif, Thelma would meet and later marry James H. Saladin, Jr. born in Norwood. To this union, three daughters were born. They also raised James’ nephew, Donald Blackwell, son of Teresa Saladin Blackwell.

Having moved to Sparks in 1964, Thelma was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School for over 40 years. Thelma worked for the University of Nevada for many years. She loved gardening at her home perched high above Washoe Valley. She made many hunting and fishing trips with James, along with good friends Al and Faye McLain. In 1975, Thelma became the first woman in Nevada to tag a wild turkey. She also caught a trophy trout at Pyramid Lake, which back in the day, made her part of the 10 Pound Club.

Thelma is survived by her husband, James, 98, residing at The Seasons in Reno, Nev.; daughters, Anita (Al) Dennis, of Reno, Nev.; Diane (Charles) Stamey, of Bozeman, Mont.; and Jayne (Paul) Elliott, of Sparks, Nev. She is also survived by Donald’s wife Sherry, of Las Vegas, Nev.; six grandchildren called her grandma. “Gigi” was the name given to her by her seven great-grandchildren. Many nieces and nephews survive her. The family would like to thank the staff at The Seasons for their care and concern. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Donations in Thelma’s name may be made to Samaritan’s Purse, Boone, N.C., or to a charity of your choosing.