On May 18, 2026, Thelma Lee Hawkins-Pounds entered into eternal rest. She was born on February 7, 1943, at her childhood home in Five Mile, Arkansas, to Truman and Elma Prince Hawkins.
Thelma Lee graduated from Concord High School with the Class of 1962. Rather than attend her senior trip, she chose to marry her high school sweetheart, Danny Bagby. The young couple made their home in Mountain View, where they welcomed two daughters into their family. Tragically, Danny lost his life in a work-related accident in 1967, leaving Thelma Lee widowed at just 24 years old. Following his passing, she returned to Drasco.
In 1969, she met the second love of her life, Jerry Pounds. The two were married on August 6, 1970, and shared 48 wonderful years together. Their marriage also made Thelma Lee the head cook of the Drasco Café, while her daughters proudly worked as waitresses. Through the café, she and Jerry became like parents to generations of teenagers from the Drasco and Concord communities. After selling the café in 1980, Thelma Lee devoted herself fully to caring for her home and family. She spent her days mowing the yard—always with a full face of makeup—keeping a spotless house and complaining about how dirty the hardware store was.
A lifelong member of Macedonia General Baptist Church, Thelma Lee was known for keeping everyone organized and on schedule. She made sure Jerry never missed a deacon or presbytery meeting and faithfully reminded others at church about important dates and events.
She was also known for her humor and unforgettable expressions, lovingly referred to by family as “Thelmaisms.” She often shared practical advice such as “Always put your makeup on before you go to the storm cellar in case the news cameras come after the storm.” She and Jerry were often spotted wandering the aisles of Walmart in the early morning hours, each with their own cart full of “necessary” items. Her unique sayings brought laughter to those around her—whether talking about the “interned,” eating “cocernut pie,” or insisting accident insurance was unnecessary because “it would only be an accident if you had an accident.”
Thelma Lee deeply loved her family, especially her grandchildren and great-granddaughter. She found joy in being outdoors, mowing the yard, and tending to her flowers. She carried herself with old-fashioned grace and elegance and was known for her sweet, humble, and tender spirit.
Above all, Thelma Lee loved Jesus, and her faith was evident throughout her life. Even when she could no longer attend church services in person, she faithfully watched Jimmy Swaggart’s broadcasts, affectionately referring to him as “her pastor” in her later years. She kept up with everything happening in his life—even noticing when he got new teeth.
She is survived by her two daughters, Dana Vannatter (Michael) of Mountain View and Kim Thomas (Jeff) of Drasco; one grandson, Chase Thomas (Hannah); two granddaughters, Mika and Nikki Vannatter; one great-granddaughter, Hadlee Jo Thomas; her beloved little dog and constant companion, Oreo; along with many other family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Verl Hawkins; her first husband, Danny Bagby; and her husband of 48 years, Jerry Pounds.
A visitation will be held Wednesday, May 20th, 2026, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at Macedonia General Baptist Church, with a funeral service following at 11:00 am. Brother Samuel Wildmon will officiate the service. Interment will take place at Macedonia Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Orven Phillips, Ricky Green, Mark Denman, Heath Grant, Donald Prince, and David McCarty.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Mountain View Funeral Service.
