In loving memory of

Thelma Jean Sayre
March 30, 1930 - December 21, 2018

Thelma Jean Sayre, 88, of Burlington died 5:00 a.m. Friday, December 21, 2018 at the Great River Klein Center in West Burlington.
Born March 30, 1930 in Reger, Missouri, she was the daughter of John W. E. and Pleasie (Lewis) Clements. She married Jake A. Sayre on January 18, 1948 in Milan, Missouri. He died December 1, 1991.
Thelma owned and operated The Gift Center on Jefferson Street in Burlington for 40 years. Prior to opening her business she worked for I.A.A.P. for 8 years.
She was of the Christian faith and a member of First United Methodist Church for 60 years and the Eagles Aerie #150.
She designed thousands of bride's weddings. She enjoyed embroidery, reading and playing cards at the Steamboat Senior Center and attending Prime Time at West Burlington Christian Church.
Survivors include her two children; Michael Lee (Diane) Sayre of Burlington and Cynthia Ann (Rich) Heeter of West Burlington; two grandchildren Marissa Lee (Josh) Riffel and Jacob Ray Heeter; two great grandchildren Georgia Lynn and Margot Jean Riffel and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and many in-laws.
The funeral service for Mrs. Sayre will be 12:00 p.m. Thursday, December 27th at Lunning Chapel. The Rev. Brian Swafford will officiate. Interment will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the funeral service.
Memorials have been established for Great River Hospice and First United Methodist Church.

Tributes

Lori Sayre (Zuppa) wrote on Dec 26, 2018:

"Mike and Cindy, My heart goes out to you for this tremendous loss. From my earliest memories of Thelma, I thought she was such a beautiful, loving person who considered herself blessed beyond measure to have such a wonderful son and daughter. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers now and in the coming days."

Nicki and Marc Moad wrote on Dec 23, 2018:

"So sorry to hear about your mom Mike and Cindy. Many prayers for you and your family."

Lisa walker wrote on Dec 23, 2018:

"LCindy I'm so sorry for your loss. You guys took great care of her. I k ow you will miss her, but we k ow shes with Jesus and not suffering. Lo e you."

Janice Gerdom wrote on Dec 22, 2018:

"So sorry Cindy and Mike and families! I enjoyed her so much. I was so surprised to see this My days at Klein were better because of her and the other Thelma. Janice Gerdom"

kathleen bray wrote on Dec 22, 2018:

"SO SORRY TO HEAR THIS SHE WAS A WONDERFUL WOMAN."

Sharon Russell wrote on Dec 22, 2018:

"Such an amazing lady. She did my flowers for my wedding 31 years ago. I still have them and they are still beautiful. Prayers to your family. ??????"

Kelly Samberg wrote on Dec 22, 2018:

"I am so sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed her at the Gift Center."

Linda and Craig Williams wrote on Dec 22, 2018:

"Prayers for you Cindy and Mike and families, It is never easy, but the assurance of heaven bound does ease the pain."

Geri Elmore wrote on Dec 22, 2018:

"Thelma was a beautiful lady. We always went to her to make our Hawaiian flower arrangements for our home and gifts for others. She made the most beautiful "graveside wreath arrangements", too! She was a great listener~ Always enjoyed our visits. Still have a couple of her arrangements in our living room and dining room! Rest in Peace, Thelma~~Love and Aloha, Tom and Geri "

Ann Gerst wrote on Dec 22, 2018:

"Such a kind lady. I still have flowers in my home that she put together for me. Such a long beautiful life. Bless all of you as you celebrate Christmas and share all your memories. "