Deloris Irene (Barksdale) Thorndike, 81, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister-in-law, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2024, in Yarmouth, Massachusetts, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in 1943 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Deloris brought warmth, laughter, and friendship to everyone she met. She grew up in Louisiana but briefly relocated to Amherst, MA when she was in High School. It was there that she met the love of her life, James Thorndike, who became her husband of 56 years.

After graduating from Amherst Regional High School, Deloris pursued a career in business management, making her mark at several car dealerships. Her career took her from Yuma, Arizona, to Northampton, Massachusetts, and finally to Pittsfield, Massachusetts, where she worked at Flynn Volkswagen/Audi/Porsche for 38 years. Known for her dedication and professionalism, Deloris earned multiple awards from Volkswagen of America, a testament to her commitment to excellence. Upon her retirement, Dee and Jim moved to their vacation home on Cape Cod full time, a very special place for them, creating lasting memories with their family and friends.

A true NASCAR enthusiast, Deloris rarely missed a race and knew every driver, car, and stat, especially for her favorite racers. She was also a die-hard New England Patriots fan, cheering them on year after year, regardless of their record. And although she made a life in New England, she never lost touch with her Southern roots, maintaining a lifelong love of country music.

Deloris is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Lucidi, and her son-in-law, Paul Lucidi, of Billerica, MA; and her beloved grandchildren, Amanda Lucidi of Billerica and Lux Lucidi of Berkley, MA. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Gerrie Barksdale of Leavenworth, KS; brother-in-law Don Hartman of Peyton, CO; brother-in-law Robert Thorndike and his wife Arlene of Shelburne Falls, MA; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will hold her memory close.

A graveside service will be held at Valley Cemetery, North Valley Rd, Pelham, MA, on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 12:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Broad Reach Hospice & Palliative Care, 390 Orleans Road No. Chatham, MA 02650 or American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org. Deloris will be remembered for her kindness, resilience, and the joy she brought to those around her."

You will be missed Aunt Dee. I didn't get to spend a lot of time with you. But that doesn't mean I loved you any less. You're a wonderful person And a wonderful aunt. I love you and you'll be missed.