Thelma Bigney (Wodham) (nee Orr), formerly of Point Clark, died peacefully, Sept. 14, 2024, at Copper Terrace in Chatham, in her 94th year. Born in Port Alberni and raised in Armstrong, British Columbia, she was the daughter of the late Gordon and Mable Orr. Thelma was predeceased by her husband, John Bigney. Survived by her sons, James (Vickie) Wodham and Bill (Penny) Wodham; and her step-daughters, Cindy Bigney, Sheryl Bigney (Andy Sturgeon), Pat Wayland (Dave), Jacquie Storey (Rob), and Tanya Denomme (Mark). Proud grandmother of Will, Josh, Megan, Jillian, Ryan, Kimberly, Laura and Adam; step-grandmother of Katie, Jesse, Brandon, Melanie, Jordan, Ethan, Sophia, Maria, Anna, Amelia and A.J.; and great-grandmother of 23. She will be missed by her best friend and co-pilot, Willie Cavan. Thelma was a long-time member of the Royal Canadian Legion in both Petrolia and Kincardine. In the 1960s, she ran the Hilltop Restaurant in Reece’s Corners and was later the manager of Montgomery Bus Lines in Lucknow where she retired. She was an avid gardener, who loved cooking for her family, and caring for her cats, Pepper and Nacho. Anyone who met her knew right away she was from British Columbia because she would tell you. She was straightforward and candid but always a caring and loving mother and friend. A celebration of life will be held Oct. 12, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Royal Canadian Legion in Petrolia. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your local Royal Canadian Legion. |