Thelma Joan Mills O'Rear was born in Swindon, England August 8, 1923. She met her husband, Carson O'Rear, who predeceased her (1988), while he was stationed in England with the U.S. Air Force during World War II. As a war bride she arrived in Bakersfield, California in 1946. She was a devoted wife and mother to her three daughters. She was involved in the PTA, Girl Scouts, an accomplished seamstress, cook, gardener, antique collector, and an avid Los Angeles Dodgers fan. She is survived by her daughters and their families, Denise Shepard, husband Gary, their children Kyle & Hayley; Julie O'Rear, husband Frank Dalcerri, their children Jason & Chelsea; Lesley Schahfer, husband Jerry, their children Max numerous relatives and friends residing in the U.S. and England. 10:00 a.m. Graveside Memorial Service will be held for Thelma Joan Mills O'Rear, age 86 of Bakersfield, Saturday, October 24, 2009 at Union Cemetery.