Willa Dene Thornton's Obituary
Willa Dene Thornton April 26, 1939 - January 3, 2025
Willa Dene Thornton, a beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted friend, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Born on April 26, 1939, in Eufaula, Oklahoma, Willa was the eldest child of Wendell Fotch and Audrey Virginia (Hunter) Hale. Growing up on the family farm, she experienced a life filled with love, hard work, and cherished memories.
Following her graduation, Willa moved to Ada to attend East Central University. In 1958 Van Thornton and Willa Hale were married. They moved to Tulsa for Van’s job with The Army Corps of Engineers, where they built their life together. She worked at Brown's Clothing Store, showcasing her unique style and dedication to her work. Willa later went to beauty school, where she became a skilled hairdresser.
Willa was a woman of many talents and accomplishments. She excelled in various roles, from her time in the PTA and school library during her children's elementary years to her dedication to becoming a top phlebotomist. Her daughter Tammie fondly recalls helping her study for those tests, striving for perfection. Willa's career journey also saw her rise to the position of manager of the China Department at Dillard’s, all while working tirelessly to ensure her children could attend college debt-free.
Her commitment to service extended beyond her professional life. Willa was a proud and active member of Beta Sigma Phi for over 60 years, often serving as Valentine's Queen and President. She made countless lifelong friends through her dedication and love for the community.
The family was the heart of Willa’s life. She ensured that dinner was always served at 5:30 PM, a tradition her children lovingly remember.
Willa is survived by her children, Tim Thornton and his wife Tina of Mounds, and Tammie Baty and her husband Tom of Bixby; her grandsons, Remington Thornton, Ramsey Thornton, Tommy Baty, and Tyler Baty; her great-granddaughter, Eleanor Thornton; her brother, Morris Hale; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Van Thornton; her daughter, Pauline Thornton; her parents, Wendell and Audrey Hale; and her sister, Sharon Kennedy.
Visitation will be held from 8:30 AM to 9:45 AM on Thursday, January 9th, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 AM, both at Floral Haven Funeral Home Chapel.
Willa’s legacy of love, dedication, and resilience will forever be remembered by those who were fortunate to know her. She touched many lives and leaves behind a lasting impact on her family and community.
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