Yvonne Wheatley Thomas' Obituary
Yvonne Wheatley Thomas, age 90, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026. She was born on March 10, 1936, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Glen Samuel Wheatley and Lena Mildred (Harrington).
Yvonne lived a full and vibrant life centered around family, friendships, and the simple joys that brought her happiness. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother who cherished every moment spent with her loved ones.
She is survived by her children, Shiela Hallett and husband Gary, Jenell Tripp and husband Phil, Leslie Edison and husband Marc, and Brian Thomas. She leaves behind a legacy through her grandchildren, Lindsay Gaede, Samantha Dunn, Marika Tripp, Matt Blackwell, Alexa Edison, and Ashlynn Geren; her great-grandchildren, Kellen Gaede, Michaela Gaede, Bryleigh Dunn, Alyssa Smelser, Olivia Tripp, Emersyn Blackwell, Easton Blackwell, and Emmalee Wicher; and her great-great-grandchild, Georgia Sue Smelser.
Yvonne was preceded in death by her parents.
She found great joy in knitting and was an avid participant in a weekly knitting group for many years prior to the COVID pandemic. Her grandchildren held dear memories of time spent with their “Granny,” especially the special outings after school or soccer practice that always included a sweet treat—most often ice cream, her favorite.
Yvonne had a love for travel, exploring both domestic and international destinations. She also enjoyed dining out, especially when it came to a good hamburger. Her warmth, humor, and love of life made her a joy to be around.
A special place in her heart was reserved for her beloved dogs throughout her life, most recently her cherished little Yorkie, Toby, who was truly her “four-legged baby.”
Professionally, Yvonne was a small retail business owner in Owasso, Oklahoma, and later worked as a longtime receptionist at Sooner Federal and Bank of America in Tulsa, where she was known for her kindness and welcoming spirit.
Yvonne will be remembered for her loving heart, her devotion to her family, and the many lives she touched along the way. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
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