Thelma Sloope Echerd

Thelma Sloope Echerd, 92, entered into her eternal rest on August 17, 2025.

She was born in Alexander County on October 31, 1932, to Thomas and Mamie Adams Sloope.

Thelma was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 49 years, Owen Neil Echerd; two sisters, Wilma Cook (Carlton) and Lillian Cook (Lynn); two nephews; and a niece.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Melinda Echerd Doster and husband Leon; her niece, Joyce Sweet (Johnny) and family; other great-nieces and nephews; and many close friends.

Thelma graduated from Hiddenite High School in 1951. She worked at Northwestern Bank for many years. She also worked as the assistant Register of Deeds for Alexander County, for the Department of Social Services, Pierpoint, and finally for many years as a BEH Assistant Teacher for Taylorsville Elementary School, where she retired in 1998.

Thelma was an active member of First Baptist Church in Taylorsville, where she taught Sunday School and served in many capacities throughout the decades. In addition to her church involvement, she enjoyed reading, crafts, gardening, and entertaining friends and neighbors. She was always ready with a meal for those in need and enjoyed helping people in any way she could.

Thelma made many lasting memories with her daughter and with friends. She loved planning special events and trips to spend time with her lifelong friends. She had a great capacity to love others.

A celebration of life service will be held at First Baptist Church of Taylorsville on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Visitation will immediately follow the service. Rev. Scott Henson will officiate. A private burial will be held at Taylorsville City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Taylorsville to support their community outreach at PO Box 305, Taylorsville, NC 28681.

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, yet shall he live.” John 11:25

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com.