Thelma Mallett

(From Knell Mortuary)

Thelma Pearl Mallett, 99, Carthage, Missouri, passed away early Thursday morning, February 1, 2024, at her home. Thelma was born on July 5, 1924, in Racine, Missouri, the daughter of the late Alfred Neece and Mary (Stull) Neece. She graduated from Neosho High School with the class of 1943. 

After high school, Thelma worked as a clerk in the Newton County Deeds office in Neosho, participated in local USO activities during WWII, and was a youth sponsor at Racine Christian Church. 

She married Eugene Mallett on November 24, 1949, in Racine, Missouri. After marriage she attended Phillips University and Drury University where she studied art. Later she worked as a key punch operator for the Mid-Continent Public Library in Independence, Missouri and she volunteered as a docent with the Kansas City Zoo mobile unit where her team taught about a variety of animals including a boa that Thelma enjoyed carrying around and showing to the children. But her favorite job was being a minister's wife. 

Thelma and Gene celebrated their 70th anniversary in 2019 and he preceded her in death on March 27, 2021. She was a member of the Racine Christian Church. Thelma’s specialty was making many beautiful ornate quilts, tending to her beautiful flower gardens, and being a wonderful mother and wife to her family.

Survivors include a daughter, Kathy Pester (Paul), Carthage, Missouri; a son, Kim Mallett (Randi), Independence, Missouri; three grandchildren, Kerry Mallett (Adena), Kristin Mallett-Forshey (Cheyenne), and Samuel Pester; and great-granddaughters, Stella and Liza Mallett, with another one on the way, Charlie Lynn Mallett-Forshey. Thelma also has a niece, Paige Duke, Floye's daughter.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Virgil Neece; and a sister, Floye Kindred.

Memorial services will be held at 11 am, Thursday, April 11, 2024, at Racine Christian Church. Thelma and Eugene will be inurned together following the memorial services at Burkhart Cemetery, Racine, Missouri. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Racine Christian Church in care of the Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.