Thelma Spencer Scott's Obituary
Thelma Spencer Scott was born in Lewistown, Montana, to the union of Leroy L. Spencer and Hazel Spencer. Though born in the West, she often proudly declared herself a "true-born Mountaineer," a heartfelt nod to her parents’ deep roots in the hills of West Virginia. In 1967, her family returned home to West Virginia, where Thelma was raised and educated, attending Simms Elementary, Lincoln Jr. High, and Huntington High School.
In September 1981, Thelma set out to fulfill a lifelong dream by enrolling in the Huntington School of Beauty Culture. Upon earning her degree and successfully passing her state board exams, she embarked on what would become an illustrious 42-year career in cosmetology. She began her professional journey at the JC Penney Salon in 1982, where she served for seven years before joining the salon of Ron & Associates in 1989.
In 1996, Thelma reached a significant career milestone when she was invited to join the founding team of El Hajj Salon & Day Spa - a premier, state-of-the-art facility opened by her high school classmate, Susan J. Hage. Thelma remained a cornerstone of the El Hajj family for 29 years, celebrating her final anniversary there in October 2025. For Thelma, cosmetology was never merely a job; it was the only "work" her heart ever desired.
Hall Funeral Home was blessed for more than two decades to call upon the gifted hands of cosmetologist Thelma Scott. Her dedication and artistry helped honor countless families with dignity and grace.
A woman of profound faith, Thelma viewed her professional craft as a ministry. She lived by the mantra that she must "treat her clients like the kings and queens they are," and she felt truly blessed by the deep, lasting relationships she built behind the chair.
Thelma’s spiritual journey began at the First Baptist Church of Huntington. Under the tutelage of Reverend Charles H. Smith, she was baptized and became a vibrant part of the church family, active in the Baptist Youth Fellowship (BYF) Sunday School and the choir. These early years formed the foundation of a life defined by faith and service.
Thelma’s devotion to the Lord was the centerpiece of her life. As a founding member of Encouragers’ Fellowship Church, she served faithfully on the praise team for 40 years. She was a constant presence at church and community events, always ready with an encouraging word for anyone she encountered. While she found immense joy in serving her clients, her greatest love was reserved for serving her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and her beautiful family.
Thelma loved to travel, and the moment she heard about a trip, she’d start stacking her pennies so she could be there. She had a joyful spirit and a song in her heart. She loved to sing, especially gospel music and praise‑and‑worship. And if there was a good party, you already knew—Thelma was ready! She gave thanks to God for everything and lived life with gratitude and excitement. She enjoyed cruises, concerts, church plays, and outings to see celebrity singers. Whenever an event was coming up, she would say, “Y’all better get your pennies together so we can go see so‑and‑so!” And trust her—she’d start saving hers the very moment she heard about it. If nobody else got tickets, Thelma was rolling solo without hesitation. She was getting her chips together and going to that concert regardless. Her joy, independence, and zest for life carried her everywhere she wanted to be.
Thelma was preceded in death by her beloved parents and her dear sister, Elva Diane Spencer.
She leaves to mourn her loss, yet continue her extraordinary legacy: her beloved husband of 46 years, Lee C. Scott, III; loving son, Lee C. Scott, IV (April); adored daughter, Dr. Shanna Denise Scott; and her treasured grandchildren, Aleena Scott and Lee C. Scott, V. She is also survived by her sisters, Bonnita Johnson and Terri Guerrant (Donald); her brother, Roy Spencer (Sharon); sister-in-law, Alice King; her very special best friend, Anna Marie Palmer-Harper; and a host of treasured nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Thelma will be forever remembered for her infectious laugh, her consistent support of her community, and her unwavering faith in God.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at First Baptist Church 801 Sixth Avenue in Huntington, WV. Visitation is at 12:00 PM and the funeral service is at 1:00PM. Hall Funeral Home, Proctorville, OH, is assisting the family with arrangements. "In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the education fund for Thelma's beloved grandchildren, Aleena and Lee Scott. V." Condolences may be expressed to the family at https://www.ehallfuneralhome.com.
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