Thelma Janice Todd (nee Young)

Thelma Janice Todd (Young) was born March 29, 1946, in Fairhope, Alabama to the late Emerson and Mazie Young. Thelma was the second oldest of 8 girls. She was preceded in death by older sister Emma Bolden. 

Thelma received Christ at an early age. She was a lifelong member of Twin Beech A.M.E. Zion Church, where she was a member of the Usher Board, Steward Board, culinary staff, and historian. She also worked as church secretary. Thelma attended Anna T. Jeanes School and Baldwin County Training School and graduated in 1964.After graduating high school, Thelma moved to Connecticut and attended Southern Connecticut State for a year. College was put on hold for a few years. Thelma later moved to New Jersey and enrolled at Rutgers University, where she earned her B.A. in Library Science, and subsequently a Master of Library Science degree from Columbia University. 

Thelma was hired to work as a librarian in the children’s division at MLK Jr. Memorial Public Library. Thelma then worked in the Congressional Liaison Division, a conduit for requests from Congress to other library divisions. Ultimately, she was selected for the newspaper periodical reading room, where she worked until her retirement in 2006. After retiring, Thelma moved back home to be near her family. Once home in Fairhope, she became involved with her community. Never one to sit back when she could be of service, Thelma was active in community history projects, specifically offering historical insight into the conversations surrounding black history against the backdrop of her hometown. She was also active within her church, Twin Beech A.M.E. Zion, and enjoyed spending time with her sisters and many friends. She also enjoyed being a member of the Royal Sixteen Club. Thelma enjoyed sports and traveling, visiting several countries. 

Thelma’s memory will forever be cherished by her sisters: Annie Young, Mildred Brown (Lanny), Carrie Wilson, Electa Denham, Rosetta Wasp, Loretta Alexander, and Caroline Safford; Goddaughter Eboni Dandridge, a host of nieces, nephews and great- nieces, extended family, and devoted friends.

One of Thelma’s favorite quotes is one she learned in grade school: “Be the best you can be. If you can’t be a tree, be the branch or be the best leaf. Be the best you can be. Be the best you can be!”

A celebration of Thelma’s life will be held Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 11:00am at Twin Beech A.M.E. Zion Church with Rev. Dr. Charlie Davis-Waller officiating.

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