Thelma Minerva (Burton) Vance

Thelma Minerva (Burton) Vance, 96, of Pepperell, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was the beloved wife of Richard G. Vance, Sr., with whom she shared 72 years of marriage.

Born in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, on January 11, 1930, Thelma was the fifth of seven children and the last surviving member of her generation of siblings. She was predeceased by her six siblings: Evelyn, Vernon, Phillis, Claire, Lorna, and Sylvia.

Throughout her life, Thelma placed family at the center of everything she did. She loved holidays and welcomed almost any occasion to bring everyone together. Big family dinners, cookouts, and simply sitting out in the garage chatting and gabbing were among the everyday pleasures she treasured. Her unconditional love was a lasting gift to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. 

Thelma and Richard loved walking together. For many years, they could be seen walking all around Pepperell, often stopping to chat with people along the way. They became familiar faces to many residents, and those walks were as much an opportunity to enjoy a friendly conversation as they were a chance to get outdoors.

Thelma had a lifelong love of reading and worked at Pepperell’s Lawrence Library for 13 years, beginning in 1984 and retiring in 1997. She also loved gardening. 

Faith was an important part of her life. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Pepperell for more than 60 years, and her belief in treating others as she wished to be treated guided her throughout her life. She will be remembered with deep affection for her devotion to her family and the many cherished memories she leaves behind.

In addition to her husband, Richard, she is survived by her four children: Richard G. Vance, Jr., and his wife, Deborah L. Vance, of North Port, Florida; Nelson E. Vance and his wife, Linda Vance, of Summerville, South Carolina; Scott W. Vance of Gilbert, Arizona; and Melissa C. Schroth and her husband, Thomas Schroth, of Pepperell, Massachusetts. She also leaves nine grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at McGaffigan Funeral Home, 37 Main Street, Pepperell, Massachusetts. A funeral service will be held at the McGaffigan Funeral Home on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m and a graveside service immediately following at Pepperell Cemetery on Park Street in Pepperell.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her memory to the Lawrence Library, 15 Main Street, Pepperell, Massachusetts, 01463.

Her love and the example she set will live on in the generations of family who were blessed to know her and love her.