MAIDEN, N.C. - Thelma Ruth Drum, 88, of Maiden, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024 at her daughter’s residence.

She was born May 24, 1936 in Catawba County to the late David and Bartly Shaw Drum. Thelma was a member of East Maiden Baptist Church and retired as a certified nursing assistant.

She was the mother of five children whom she loved deeply and unconditionally.  Thelma loved cooking for everyone and family get-togethers; nobody ever left hungry. She loved all animals, especially her own cats and dogs throughout the years. Thelma enjoyed going to the mountains and reading Billy Graham and Charles Stanley books, which she could read for hours. Thelma was a racing fan and loved to reminisce about Fireball Roberts, but her favorite racer was Harry Gant. Throughout the 80’s, Thelma attended numerous races with her daughter, and sometimes her grandson, and they had the time of their lives. Until recently, Thelma still watched races on television. She enjoyed listening to music and was a big fan of Ray Price, Perry Como, Loretta Lynn, Alan Jackson, and The Gaithers. Thelma cared for her friends and family deeply, but most of all she loved the Lord and did her best to instill Him in her children and grandchildren. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, David Benfield; brothers and their wives, Delbert and Eloise Drum, Cyril and Priscilla Drum, Carol and Ruth Drum and Cletus and Ruth Drum; and her special friend, Frank Roberts

Those left to cherish her memory are her sons Eric Benfield and wife Beverly of Dacula, Ga., Lowel Benfield and wife Trena of Cleveland, Ga.; daughters Vickie Hedrick of Maiden, Ronda Benfield of Maiden; grandchildren Eddie Loden (Denise), Mark Loden, Mandy Pope (Sean), Nichole Spurlock (Danny), Joseph Benfield (Fancy), Jacob Benfield (Christina), Brandy Benfield and David Benfield; 14 great-grandchildren; 14 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service to celebrate Thelma’s life was held on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 3 p.m. at Maiden City Cemetery. Rev. Nathaniel Austin will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service.  

Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Catawba County, PO Box 63, Hickory, NC 28603

Condolences may be sent to the Drum family at www.bennettfuneralservice.com

Bennett Funeral Service of Newton, N.C. is serving the Drum family.