RANTOUL- THELMA T. MIYA, 93, died peacefully at her daughter's home on Sunday, March, 1, 2026, in Rantoul, Illinois.

Thelma was born September 28, 1932, in Honolulu, Hawaii.  She was the daughter of Rev. Chuhachi [Buddhist minister] and Tamayo Matsumoto.   She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings:  Helen, David, George, John, Hisako, and Frances.  Her sister, May, survives (Honolulu, Hawaii).

On May 1, 1954, Thelma married Lawrence Miya in Honolulu, Hawaii.  Together, they embraced military life [Lawrence - USAF] and its many relocations, eventually settling in Rantoul, Illinois, where they made their home for over 40 years. They shared 55 years of marriage before Lawrence's passing on December 24, 2009.  Thelma was a devoted mother to Leslie (Nancy) Miya of Waipahu, Hawaii, and Karen (Jim) Snyder of Rantoul. She cherished her role as grandmother to Christopher (Cathy) Snyder, Patrick (Megan) Snyder, Matthew Snyder and Nicole (Evan) Stork, and as great-grandmother to Marion and Mabel Snyder.

Patient and reserved, Thelma expressed her love through steady acts of kindness and care. She was known for her delicious weekly Sunday family dinners, her enjoyment of ballroom dancing, and her deep devotion to those closest to her. Her greatest joy was seeing her family gathered together.

A family service will be held at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Honolulu, Hawaii). Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is assisting the family with arrangements.