Thekla Elizabeth Decker, 94, Hutchinson, KS, died February 16, 2009, at Promise Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson, KS.

Called "Teddy" by her father, Thekla was born September 25, 1914, in Springfield, Ill., to Lloyd and Esther Decker.

The oldest of seven children, Thekla moved to Goddard, KS, in 1917, attended North High School and graduated with an education degree from Emporia State Teachers College, Emporia, KS. She was a career librarian for the Veterans Administration in Chicago, Poplar Bluff, Mo., Sheridan, Wyo., and Fayetteville, Ark. She retired in the early 70's and moved to Hutchinson in 1996. Thekla was an avid reader and encouraged her nieces and nephews to read, regularly sending them books. Hers was a life of continuous learning and teaching.

She was a member of N.A.R.F.E. (National Active and Retired Federal Employees) and Grace Episcopal Church, Hutchinson.

She is survived by: two sisters; Iris Decker, Hutchinson, KS, and Cleda Decker, Santa Clara, Calif.; and nieces and nephews too numerous to mention. Her faithful Christmas gifts each year to her widespread family counted over 75 Christmas tree ornaments.

Memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, February 19, 2009, at Grace Episcopal Church, Hutchinson, with Rev. Michael P. Milliken presiding. Cremation has taken place. Friends may sign the register from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson.

Memorials may be sent to Grace Episcopal Church in care of the mortuary.

Visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave personal condolences for the family.