Thelma Arlene Heppner, 89, of Williamston, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, with her family and her loyal dog, Cody, by her side.
Born on June 28, 1936, in Shelbyville, Indiana, Thelma was the daughter of Juanita and William Aldridge. She was raised in Shelbyville by her mother and stepfather, Vergil Fallis. On November 14, 1954, she married the love of her life, Fredrick Paul Heppner, in their hometown. Together they shared 63 years of marriage until Fred’s passing in January 2018. During this time, they enjoyed travelling the U.S. and owned homes in Indiana, Michigan, Florida and Tennessee. Thelma enjoyed gardening, golf, and was an avid reader. She also loved spending time with her family, including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Thelma is survived by her children, Mark (Dr. Lynne Moseley) Heppner, Jay (Sandy Tibbs) Heppner, and Jill (Steve) Quinlan; grandchildren, Jaimie Young, Josh Heppner, Autumn Heppner, Chelsey (Anthony) Sasinowski, Megan (Jack) Quinlan Kennedy, and Katelyn (Kyle) Brindza; and great-grandchildren, Niko, Quinn, Connor, Beckham, Arlo, Carter, Tucker, Savannah, and Taytum. Also surviving are Thelma's siblings, Loretta Cox and Rick Fallis; in-laws, John and Elaine Heppner; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Heppner; granddaughter, Carli Heppner; brother, Wendell Aldridge and wife, Kathy Aldridge; sister-in-law, Ruth Ann Bowman; brother-in-law, Lynn Cox; and her parents, Juanita and Vergil Fallis, and William Aldridge.
The family would like to thank Hospice of Lansing for the compassionate care provided to Thelma in her final days.
A graveside committal will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 10:30 AM at St. Joseph Cemetery in Shelbyville, Indiana, where Thelma will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, followed by a family gathering to celebrate her life.
Funeral Directors, Greg Parks, Sheila Parks and Stuart Parks are honored to serve Thelma’s family.
Online condolences may be shared at www.murphyparks.com.
Memorial contributions appreciated to the American Cancer Society, or to the charity of your choice.
