Thelma Lorraine (Hiner) Townsend, 93, of Mill Gap, Virginia, passed away, Friday, October 8, 2021 at her home.

She was born December 4, 1927 in Monterey, the only child of the late Rhoda (Hiner) Evick.

On December 20, 1946 she married the late Lynn Elwood Townsend and shared 71 years of marriage with him until his passing July 3, 2018.

A devout Christian, Mrs. Townsend was a member of the Green Hill United Methodist Church and played a huge role in the United Methodist Women.

She was valedictorian of the 1945 graduating class of Monterey High School.

Thelma spent time as a cashier at Mack Briscoe's store and helped keep the books for Lynn's Auction Barn.

She was an avid scrapbooker, making albums of all the family members and in the early years enjoyed playing Rook with family and neighbors. Above all she will be remembered as a loving wife, mother and grandmother.

She is survived by two sons, Lynn "Lynnie" Elwood Townsend Jr. and wife, Linda of Churchville and David Eugene Townsend of Franklin, W.Va.; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; as well as four great great grandchildren.

In addition to her mother, she was predeceased by two infant daughters, Ellen Marie and Diana Kay Townsend.

A graveside service was held at 2 p.m., Monday, October 11, 2021 in Green Hill Cemetery, Mill Gap with pastor Bobbie Jo Gardner officiating.

Active pallbearers were Chad, Jeremy and Tanner Townsend, Preston and Matthew Woods and Brandon and Travis Cash.

Memorial contributions may be made to Green Hill Cemetery, c/o Richard Simmons, 8171 Mill Gap Road, Monterey, Va. 24465 or to H.E.L.P Center, P. O. Box 76, Churchville, Va. 24421.

The Obaugh Funeral Home handled the arrangements.