Thelma M. Elder

Thelma M. Elder, 89, formerly of Reading, passed away Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 2:20 pm in the residence of her daughter Lori A. Davis of Willow Street, Lancaster County.  She was the wife of the late Harry E. Elder.  Born in New York, Mrs. Elder was the daughter of the late Franz and Thelma (Houck) Schwegmann.  She was a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ, Gibraltar and was a 1952 graduate of Central Catholic High School and attended Alvernia University.  Mrs. Elder was employed by Conestoga Telephone as a receptionist.  She is survived by her son Jack S. Bliesath husband of Patricia E. Bliesath of Mertztown; her daughter Lori A. Davis wife of Robert J. Davis with whom she last resided and her 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren, one great great grandchild and several nieces and nephews.    Mrs. Elder was preceded in death by her daughter Debra S. Gilbreath; her son Robert Bliesath and her siblings Francis Schwegmann, Maria Schlosser and Theresa Rosenthal. 

Memorial Service will be held at St. John’s United Church of Christ 57 St. John’s Road, Gibraltar, Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 11:00 am.  Reverend Bruce Kreisher will officiate.  Interment will follow at St. John’s Cemetery.  The family will receive relatives and friends at St. John’s United Church of Christ Wednesday from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.  In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Tunnel to Tower Foundation, www.t2t.com, in the memory of Mrs. Thelma M. Elder.  Bean Funeral Homes & Crematory 3825 Penn Ave. Sinking Spring is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.beanfuneralhomes.com