CITRUS TRAILBLAZER THELMA RALEY PASSES AWAY


CITRUS TRAILBLAZER THELMA RALEY PASSES AWAY
Thelma Cornell Raley, a noted Polk County citrus grower, died of heart failure Dec. 29 at age 94. During her long life, she made innumerable contributions to both the industry and her community.
A Tallahassee native, Mrs. Raley came to Polk County in 1940 and founded a citrus operation with her first husband, Ed Cornell. After his passing, she stepped in to manage the groves. Among her many accomplishments, Mrs. Raley earned a bachelor's degree in English at age 80.
She served in many organizations including Florida Citrus Mutual and the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame. She was also a longtime board member of Dundee Citrus Growers.
Raley was preceded in death by her husband, William L. Raley, who died in 2003. Survivors include sons George Kirtley and Lindsey Raley; foster son, Kalung Riang; daughter, Donna Class; and a brother, two sisters and seven grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations to be made to Good Shepherd Hospice and Boys & Girls Clubs of Winter Haven.

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