Tomasita Talsma

Tomasita “Tommie” Talsma, 82, of Avon, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at the Springfield Assisted Living Center. Born on November 30, 1943, in Marfa, Texas, Tommie lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, and quiet grace.

A truck driver and farmer, she embraced both roles with strength and determination. She shared 56 years of marriage with her husband Pete, enjoying many joyful motorcycle trips together. In her later years, she cherished her winters in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where she spent meaningful time with her daughter Christine.

Tommie was known for her wit, sass, and infectious laugh. She carried a humble spirit and an inner and outer beauty that others immediately recognized, often marked by her red lipstick and signature red bow hair clip. She never met a stranger, always greeting others with warmth and striking up conversations about her beloved South Dakota. A talented seamstress, she created pieces with care and skill. She loved to bake, especially homemade breads, donuts, and fresh tortillas she prepared for her son Ray when he returned from school. She delighted in having warm bread ready for her grandson Kenny, and she took pride in making fresh salsa for a local pub in Avon and her much-anticipated homemade tacos.

Tommie is survived by her children, Christine Legarda (Erick) and Ray Talsma (Kim); her grandchildren, Kenny Talsma (Theresa) and Candi Zahradka; and her great-grandchildren, Angel, Peter, Tessa, and Annie Talsma, and Britton, Braylee, and Briella Knowles, who lovingly called her Granny. She is also survived by her sisters, Mellie Benavidez and Mary Ann Garcia, and many loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband and best friend, Pete Talsma; her parents, Estanislao and Enriqueta Jacquez; her sisters, Viola Virag, Eva Jacquez, and Elva Jacquez; and her nephew Matthew Virag and nieces Lisa Benavidez and Nancy Garcia.