Thelma Ileana Lara

Thelma Ileana Lara, 63, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, family, and kindness.

Born on May 17, 1963, in Guatemala City, Guatemala, Thelma carried the warmth and traditions of her homeland with her throughout her life. She spent many years in Providence, Rhode Island, before later making Winston-Salem, North Carolina, her home. Wherever she lived, she touched the lives of those around her with her compassion, generosity, and unwavering faith.

Thelma was a talented baker whose passion and skill helped establish one of the first Guatemalan bakeries in Providence, Rhode Island. Through her cakes, pastries, and traditional Guatemalan breads, she shared her culture, brought people together, and created lasting memories for countless families and friends. Everything she baked reflected the love and care she poured into her work.

Above all else, Thelma treasured her family. She was a devoted and loving wife to her beloved husband, Ovidio Ernesto Lara. She was a cherished mother to her daughters, Jemberly Julissa Guzman, Damariz Agosto, and Jacqueline Guzman Burton, and a loving stepmother to Joy Lara.

Thelma found immense happiness in her role as a grandmother to Donovan Guzman, Zumy Leon-Guzman, Naeshawn Guzman, Julissa Guzman, Addy Agosto, Annaleia Agosto, and Thomas Burton III. She was also blessed with the joy of becoming a great-grandmother to Kahlani Rene Guzman.

A woman of deep faith, Thelma lived her life guided by love, prayer, and service to others. She was known for her generous heart, comforting presence, and willingness to help anyone in need. Her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith left a lasting mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing that Thelma is now at peace in the presence of the Lord she loved so deeply. Her spirit, love, and legacy will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and all whose lives she touched.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM, Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Hayworth-Miller Kernersville Chapel with Pastor Praxedis Cisneros officiating. Interment to follow at Mt. Gur Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 – 2:45 PM prior to the service.

Forever in our hearts, forever loved, and never forgotten.