Thelma Jean (Mitchum) Lema

Thelma Jean “TJ” Lema, 64, of Blackfoot, Idaho, beloved mother, nana, sister, friend, and aunt, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was a woman of boundless love and compassion, known for her open-door policy and her unwavering dedication to the people in her life.

TJ was born on March 25, 1960, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. From an early age, she embraced the responsibility of caring for others. Growing up in a home where her father was absent and her mother was still finding her own path, TJ became her grandmother's right hand and a surrogate mother to her younger brothers, showing maturity beyond her years.

As she raised her own family, she continued to embody that same nurturing spirit, raising six biological children, along with numerous foster and unofficially adopted children, all of whom came to call her "Mom." Her home was always a sanctuary where the door was never locked and there were always clean blankets waiting for anyone in need.

TJ lived by two simple rules: "Don't lie to me" and "Don't go hungry." Her love for family and community knew no bounds. She was a mother to many, a confidante, and a second chance to those in need. TJ's journey through life included its share of challenges, including two marriages that didn't last. Her story found its beautiful resolution when she met her true love, "Lucky." They were meant to be from the very start. Together, they shared several years of love, laughter, and mutual devotion before Lucky's passing. TJ is now reunited with him, her King and one true love, in the peace and comfort of eternity.

The mischievous bond she shared with Vernon and the joy she found in following Philip's adventures across the United States will remain forever etched in the hearts of her family. TJ touched countless lives with her kindness, humor, and love. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a mother, a nana, a sister, a friend, an aunt, and a true pillar of her community.

Thelma is survived by her children, Michael Fife, Jeramia (Amber) Clark, Christopher Lema, Brandie (Tonya) Herold, OnaLee (Gary) Tucker, Dustin (Laura) Lema, Josiah (Shealeigh) Clark, and Mariah (Zacherey) Nowland; more than 20 grandchildren, each of whom had their own special and unique bond with their Nana; numerous foster and bonus children, all of whom carry on her legacy of love and care; mother, Betty LaBelle, who cherishes her; brothers, Vernen (Melanie) LaBelle, Kenneth Mitchum, David Gates, Philip (Jane) LaBelle; several half-siblings; and the endless love of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Mitchum; grandmother, Dorthy Dean Corbin; her loving ex-in-laws, Carl and Nancy Clark; their son, the father of her children, Carl ‘Big Joe’ Clark; and, lastly, her loving husband, Douglas ‘Lucky’ Lema, and his parents, Jane and Edward Lema.

Thelma is now at peace, reunited with her beloved Lucky, and will forever be remembered for the illimitable love she gave to all who crossed her path. Thelma and Lucky ?? "The truck is built, the engine is in place, the wheels are being installed and inflated. Soon the ride home will happen. She will be reunited with the love of her life, and they will watch over and take care of everyone. There will finally be peace." ~ Tonya Herold

A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends of Thelma Lema, 6-9 p.m. Friday, January 10, 2025, at Redd’s Grill, located inside the Shilo Inn, 780 Lindsay Blvd. Follow this link to RSVP and to attend virtually. Come share memories, laughter, and the love she so freely gave.