Thelma Mary Caldwell

Thelma Mary Caldwell, a beacon of love, laughter, and boundless energy, passed away on April 9, 2025 in Greenfield, Massachusetts. She was born on April 2, 1931 to Harold and Jeanette (Chamberlain) Dove in Peasleeville, NY. On August 7, 1948 she married Herman Drost. They were blessed in raising 5 children in Halifax, VT, Donald, Brenda, Herman, Jeanette and Duane.

Thelma was the epitome of courage. At 9 years of age she and her 7 siblings lost their mother. At 53, she and her sister Lavern attended Adult Education Classes and graduated from Whittingham High School in 1984. This accomplishment marked the beginning of a new chapter as she and her husband moved to Tallassee, Alabama. After 25 years, she returned alone to Massachusetts, where she continued to fill her home with love, warmth, and the irresistible aroma of her homemade bread.

Known for her wit, Thelma's house was a treasure trove of her hobbies. From her homemade quilts and children's clothing to her ceramic items thoughtfully painted, every corner of her home showcased her creative spirit. Her collection of dolls and angels and her large Christmas Village were a sight to behold. But her true masterpiece was her kitchen, where she baked the most delicious breads and pies, and prepared large holiday family dinners. Her bread and butter pickles were legendary.

Thelma was loyal and supportive, her family and friends were her world. Her love extended beyond her children to her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren all 55+. She would have loved meeting her 4 new granddaughters born these past few months. Having lost her own mother at a young age, Thelma had a deep-seated desire to mother everyone she met. Her legacy of love is carried forward by her surviving children, Brenda Kempton, Herman Drost, Jeanette Whitewolf, Duane Drost, Josie Pollard, Roy Wilkins, Dell Burns, and Frances Higgins. She is also survived by her siblings Elaine Dove, Wayne Dove, and Gordon Dove.

As a devout Baptist, Thelma found great joy in her church family. She was an active participant in teaching Bible School and other church activities. In accordance with her faith, we remember the verse from Matthew 5:16, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Thelma's light shone brightly in everything she did, touching everyone she met.

Thelma was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Jeanette Dove, her siblings Harold Dove, Lavern Corey, June Gray, Mona Momaney, and Norman Dove, her spouses Herman Drost, Harvey Wilkins, and Ira Caldwell, and her son Donald Drost.

We invite you to share your memories and upload photos of Thelma on her memorial page. In remembering her, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, courage, and a zest for life that was uniquely Thelma.

Calling Hours will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 11:00AM-1:00PM at Mack Family Funeral Home, 110 New Athol Rd. Orange, MA.

A burial will take place at a later time.