Thelma I. Ault

Thelma I. Ault, 87, longtime Columbus resident, passed away March 19, 2026, at IU Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. Mrs. Ault was born on April 12, 1938, in Brown County, Indiana, to the late Basil E. and Dollie (Brand) Roberts. She married Leanard G. Ault on June 25, 1956 in Bloomington, and he preceded Thelma in death on April 23, 2008.

Mrs. Ault graduated from Van Buren High School in 1956. She was a proud and capable homemaker who also enjoyed growing flowers and caring for her garden. Early on, she attended Harmony Baptist Church. She enjoyed working word search puzzles and was always willing to help others. Above all, Thelma enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

In addition to her parents and Leonard, she was preceded in death by siblings, George Roberts and Wilma Freese; son-in-law, D. Jeff Dugan.

Survivors include her daughter, Debra (the late D. Jeff) Dugan; brother, Nelson J. Roberts; sister, Mildred Carson; several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory. The funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. at the funeral home on Tuesday. Burial will be in Garland Brook Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Columbus Animal Shelter or to the Brown County Humane Society. Visit www.JewellRittman.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.