ROBINS, Thelma Robins

With deep love and gratitude for a life so beautifully lived, the family of Thelma Mae Robins announces her peaceful home-going from the Chapman House, Owen Sound on November 11, 2025, at the age of 77.
Born in Perth, New Brunswick, Thelma grew up in Florenceville and later called Corner Brook, Guelph, Sus, Owen Sound, and Goderich home — though her heart always belonged to Florenceville and Owen Sound.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, David Robins, her loving children Shane and Shauna and her adored grandchildren Aliyah and Kai, who brought her endless joy and pride. Thelma will also be deeply missed by her brother Mark Derrah and his wife, Terry and brother-in-law Dave Rott, husband of her late sister Charlene (Derrah) Rott, with whom she shared a lifelong and unbreakable bond. Predeceased by her father and mother, Wallace Derrah and Fay (Gilbert) Derrah.
At a young age Thelma came to understand the importance of personally trusting Jesus as her Saviour so she would go to heaven when He called, either through death or at the rapture. Throughout her life, that faith in Christ guided the decisions she made and was evident to all who knew her. Privately, each evening she would sit at the dining room table with her cup of King Cole Tea, reading her Bible and the devotional booklet, Daily Bread. She chose, as her life verse, from her Bible, “Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass.” Psalm 37:5
A graduate of New Brunswick Bible Institute in Victoria, N.B. and vocational school in Woodstock, Thelma worked as a secretary at a golf course in Corner Brook, in the zoology department at the University of Guelph, and later as secretary to the head chaplain at the hospital in Owen Sound. She was also a faithful pastor’s wife, supporting him in ministry over 48 years in five churches — always serving others with grace, humour, and a song in her heart.
A gifted pianist, Thelma “made the piano sing.” Her laughter was infectious, her smile constant, and her faith unwavering. She was a breast cancer survivor of over 19 years and a strong believer in the healing power of prayer — and of power walking. Her broomstick workouts in the basement were legendary, as were her signature dishes: Tuna Buns, Chicken Rolls, and Chocolate Chip cookies — recipes that will live on in family kitchens for generations.
Thelma had a flair for style, always with her nails done and an outfit perfectly coordinated. She loved a good shopping trip — often buying a little extra and then returning what didn’t make the cut — and she kept a fully stocked pantry filled with her favorite “flavors and crispers.” She had a few signature sayings, too — “Whoa be tide!”, “Mark it down” and “Heads will be rolling!” — delivered with a pointed right index finger and her trademark sparkle and charm.
Above all, Thelma’s heart belonged to her Saviour, Jesus Christ and her family. She and David shared a rare and beautiful love story — best friends and soulmates who supported each other through every season of life. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she never stopped cheering them on and praying daily for them.
Visitation will be held on Thursday evening November 20th, 2025, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at the Brown Family Funeral Home, 1 – 900 10th Street West, Owen Sound, 519-376-3710.
A celebration of Thelma’s life will be held on Friday, November 21st at 2:00 pm from South End Fellowship Baptist Church, 400 2nd Ave SE., Owen Sound Ontario.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, Grey Bruce Hospice Foundation – Chapman House, Owen Sound or South End Fellowship Baptist Church are appreciated.