A very special person has departed this life and has moved on to a better one. The soul of Thelma Artis peacefully rose to her eternal home on Sunday, December 30, 2007 at Obici Hospital, Suffolk, Virginia. Thelma, as she was lovingly called, was born on August 12, 1938 to the late Sadie and Buster Eure in Suffolk, Virginia. Thelma was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Artis and her son Melvin Artis.

She was a housewife and the eldest of eight children. Being overcome by the power of love, Thelma met her late husband, Richard Artis and was married to him over 40 years. To this union were born six children.

We are going to miss her smile and her sense of humor, God has a better place for her. She leaves to mourn her loss and cherish her memory, five children; Brenda Artis, Sundra Artis, Calvin Artis; Rachel (Terrance) all of Suffolk, Virginia; Patricia Artis, of North Carolina; four sisters, Barbara Stalling; of Suffolk, Virginia, Mable Dillard of Baltimore Maryland, Marie Davis of Franklin, Virginia; two brothers; George Eure of Suffolk, Virginia, Freddie Eure of Hampton, Virginia. Nine grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 Noon, Saturday, January 5, 2007 at Crocker Funeral Home with Dr. Anthony Copeland, officiating. Interment will be held in Carver Memorial Cemetery. Crocker funeral home is in charge of arrangements.