Thelma Louise Charles Cartwright, 98 of Portsmouth, formerly of Indianapolis, IN, passed away Wednesday, February 27, 2019. She was born February 9, 1921 in Cincinnati, OH, a daughter of the late James and Rosie (Gunter) Charles. Thelma was a member of Witherspoon Presbyterian Church. She was a graduate of Tennessee State University, was a Charter member of the Tennessee State Alumni Association and Dedicated Member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Thelma had a passion for writing and public speaking and treasured education and the opportunity to contribute.

She is survived by a daughter, Barbara Cartwright Mukes of Indianapolis, IN; two grandchildren, Desiree and Ana; a sister-in-law, Maxine Ballard of Portsmouth; a brother-in-law, Seth Cartwright; many nieces and nephews; and a host of family and friends.

A graveside service will be held 1:00 p.m. Thursday, March 14, 2019 at Washington Park North Cemetery in Indianapolis, IN, under the direction of  D.W. SWICK-NELSON FUNERAL HOME in New Boston, Ohio Fond memories and expressions of condolence may be shared at www.DWSwickNelsonFuneralHome.com.