Thelma Catherine Jorgenson

Thelma Catherine Jorgenson, 91, of Ballinger, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

Catherine was born on February 3, 1934, to William Marion and Nellie (Bigby) Hays in Ballinger, Texas. She grew up on a ranch south of Ballinger. For a brief period, the family moved to Borden County before returning. Catherine started elementary school in Bethel. Around 1945, the family moved into Ballinger where she attended junior high and later high school. After high school, Catherine attended University of North Texas at Denton and later at Angelo State College majoring in Theatre. On June 11, 1957, Catherine married the love of her life, Erling Lloyd Jorgenson, and they spent 33 years together before his passing in 1990.

Catherine worked for 38 years for the Ballinger Independent School District in different capacities, mainly as the high school secretary. She loved vacationing, especially to England. While in England, Catherine collected little miniature houses and buildings of England. She also loved British Fox Hunting Art. Another hobby she enjoyed was working on beautiful hand painted ceramics. Catherine was a very social woman. She enjoyed spending time with her dear friends and attending First Methodist Church of Ballinger. She enjoyed reunions with her Ballinger Class of '51 and going to Bearcat Football games.

Catherine is preceded in death by her parents William and Nellie Hays, and her husband Erling, as well as her daughter Eileen Jorgenson and siblings Johnnie Beth Hays and Grider Hays. She is survived by her children, daughter Elaine Jorgenson of Jacksboro, son Lloyd Jorgenson and wife Danette of Abilene, son Craig Jorgenson of Lubbock, and son Lance Jorgenson and wife Misty of New York City. Catherine is also survived by her brother Dr. James Hays and wife Kay of Brownwood, and her sister Gale Hays Webb and husband Jerry of Georgetown, and sister-in-law Ann Hays of Ballinger, as well as 3 grandchildren C.J., Michael, and Hope.

A meal and visitation will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, and will precede her service, at the fellowship hall at The First Methodist Church of Ballinger, Texas at 12:00 pm. Her funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm that day with Gary Booth officiating. Her interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Ballinger, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made The First Methodist Church of Ballinger, Texas in Catherine's name.

The family wishes to thank the employees of Chisholm Court of Abilene for helping to take care of her for the last few months.

Guests may register online at www.ballingerfuneralhome.com