Thelma Smiley

Thelma Smiley, age 90, of Hilliard, formerly of Ashland, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. Born on July 22, 1934, in Grove City, Ohio, Thelma was the daughter of the late Oscar and Mabel Marie (Moffit) Hoffman.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Smiley; her parents; and her sister, Frances Foreman (Hoffman).

Thelma is survived by her loving children, Alan (Karla) Smiley and Charlene Duncan; her brother, Paul (Ann) Hoffman; three beloved grandchildren: Ben (Michelle) Duncan, Dan (Mary-Kate) Duncan, and Lauren (Rick) McClune; and four cherished great-grandchildren: Carter, Maverick, Margot, and Deacon. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved her deeply.

A loving mother and grandmother, Thelma moved from Ashland to Columbus to be closer to her grandchildren—whom she delighted in spoiling nearly every day. Her house was always stocked with butterscotch candies, 7-Up, or the unanimous favorite: her Christmas cookies.

Thelma loved sports — her family knew that “Gram” would always answer her phone, but they better have had a good reason for calling during an Ohio State football game or a golf tournament with Tiger Woods at the top of the leaderboard.

Her love of sports extended to the bleachers as well—Thelma proudly attended her grandkids’ sporting events, from elementary through high school, traveling to Massillon, Oxford, and many stadiums in between.

A breast cancer survivor, Thelma faced life’s challenges with resilience and humor. Known for her frank wit and unshakable independence, she even kept an open pack of cigarettes in the freezer “just in case,” long after she’d quit.

She will be remembered for her fierce love of family, her unrelenting loyalty, and the way she lit up every room with her presence.

Family will receive friends from 11am-1pm on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at the TIDD FUNERAL HOME, 5265 Norwich St., Hilliard, OH; where funeral service will follow at 1pm. Interment Grove City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Carmel Hospice.