Thelma Settles, born October 4, 1936, departed this life on March 14, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Felix and Annie Lou Smith; two brothers; and four sisters.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children, Theresa Settles and Lewis Lee Settles. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Lewis Settles III, Daren Settles, Da’mien Settles, Brandon Settles, Mussolni Settles, Ciara Settles, Katrina and Dontavius Davis Sr., Brittany Green, and Shundrela and Javis Stroud.

Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Zekiah Settles, Damien Settles, Zekhi Settles, Kylan Settles, Dalani Settles, Kaicen Settles, Kadin Settles, Karson Settles, Dontavius Davis Jr., Kaylee Davis, Sh’nyah Settles, Sa’renity Settles, Demetrius Settles II, Kylan Stroud, Jaiceon Stroud, and Jahnizae Few.

She is also survived by her sister, Gladys Smith, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Thelma was feisty in the best possible way. She told it like it was, whether you were ready to hear it or not. You never had to guess what she was thinking — and honestly, that was one of the greatest gifts she gave us. In a world where people often hold back, Thelma was refreshingly, unapologetically real.

But right alongside that strong spirit was her sense of humor. She was a jokester, always ready with something clever, something a little mischievous, something that could make you laugh even on a hard day. And somehow, even when she was teasing you, you knew it came from love.

Thelma loved her family deeply. That love showed up in the way she talked to you, the way she checked on you, and even in the way she fussed at you. Because if Thelma took the time to say something to you — especially if it was blunt — it meant you mattered.

She also knew how to enjoy the simple things in life. Give her some time fishing, a good episode of Walker, Texas Ranger, and she was just about where she wanted to be. There was something special about how she could find joy in those everyday moments — and remind us to do the same.

And we can’t forget — Thelma was a hardworking woman. Working at the Vallejo shipyard building submarines is no small thing. That takes strength, skill, and determination — all things she had in abundance. She helped build something powerful and enduring, just like the legacy she leaves behind in all of us.

Thelma didn’t live a quiet life — she lived a full, honest, and vibrant one. She made sure you knew where you stood with her, she made you laugh, and she made you stronger just by being herself.

So today, while we miss her deeply, we can also smile. Because if Thelma were here, she’d probably tell us not to make too big a fuss… and then crack a joke to lighten the mood.

And that’s how we’ll remember her — strong, funny, loving, and completely unforgettable.

A memorial service to honor the life of Ms. Settles will be held at the chapel of Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home (1215 Access Road, Covington) on Saturday, March 21 at 2:00 P.M. Friends are invited to visit with the family at the funeral home two hours prior to the service, from 12:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M.