Thelma Claudette Bacon-Badger

Thelma Claudette Bacon Badger, born on July 26, 1935, in Jacksonville, Florida. She was a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and beloved member of her community. Thelma departed this life surrounded by love on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, leaving a legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering faith.

Thelma was the daughter of Albert Bacon, Sr. and Margaret Anderson Bacon. She grew up in a loving household that instilled in her the values of hard work, perseverance, and compassion for others. A product of the Duval County Public Schools, Thelma graduated from both Douglas Anderson and Stanton High School, laying a foundation of education that she would later pass on to her children.

On April 6, 1954, Thelma married her soulmate, Lorenzo Rufus Badger. Their union lasted over forty wonderful years, during which they welcomed five children into the world: Glenda Jones (Bobie), Loretta Wright, Cartonya Badger, Lorenzo Badger, Jr., and Cynthia Badger Simmons. Thelma's family was her pride and joy; she poured her heart into raising her children and fostering a loving, supportive environment for them to thrive.

Thelma's life was enriched by her deep involvement in her community and her lifelong membership at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Under the guidance of esteemed pastors like Reverend Cooper, Reverend Odom, and presently Reverend Samuel Norris, she was an active participant in church life—serving as President of Usher Board #2, President of District #5, and the Deaconess board. As the mother of the church, she was a source of wisdom and strength for many, always offering a listening ear and a warm smile.

Preceding her in death were her beloved parents, Albert and Margaret Bacon; her devoted husband, Lorenzo Badger, Sr.; and her children, Lorenzo Badger, Jr. and Cynthia Badger Simmons. She was also preceded in death by her siblings: Albert Bacon, John Bacon, Evelyn Flynn, Alvie Bacon, Carretta Stewart, and Joan Green. Their memories remain etched in the hearts of those who loved them.

Thelma is survived by her three daughters, Glenda, Loretta, and Cartonya; sons-in-law, William Dean, Sr. and Norris Simmons; and a beautiful brood of seven grandchildren: Cherese Jones, Bobie Jones Jr., Kaven Wright Sr., Kyran Wright, Lakeria Dean, Wynter Dean, and William Dean Jr. She was blessed with eight great-grandchildren: Joseph, Sebastián, Kaven Jr., Neriya, Kerry, Sydney, Khadijah, and William III. Thelma treasured her siblings, Margaret “Shirley” Bartley, Hazel Moses (Felton), Jean Gilmore (Nolan), Carolyn Bentley (Charles), Jeraldine Powell, and her godchildren Aundrea Smith, Carlous Bentley, Carl Williams, Marletha Bacon, and Christine Williams, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever hold her memory close.

In addition to her family and community involvement, Thelma had a vibrant spirit that loved sewing, gardening, and crocheting. She found joy in attending family functions and spent countless hours creating cherished memories with her husband, siblings, children, and grandchildren.

Her legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. Thelma Claudette Bacon Badger was a beacon of light, and while her physical presence will be missed, her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

Rest in peace, dear Thelma. You have left this world a better place, and we are grateful for the time we shared with you.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Southside is serving the Family.

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