Thelma Willow (Thiessen) Flanigin was born July 25, 1921 in Hydro, OK, to Bernhard and Susie Thiessen and left us on May 15, 2019 at the age of 97 years, 9 months and 20 days, in her home. She was preceded in death by husband, Herman; son, Ronald; granddaughter, Jessica West; and sister, Loretta Winn.

Graduating at 16 from Hinton High School, Thelma matriculated at Southwestern State College in Weatherford and transferred to Oklahoma University to complete her nursing degree. There she met the love of her life, Herman Flanigin, and embarked on a remarkable life journey that lasted 67 years until his death. They traveled the world and had 3 children, who enriched their life. Settling in Tulsa, OK, Thelma raised the children while Herman practiced neurosurgery. Eventually, they moved to Little Rock, AR; Augusta, GA, and retired to Albuquerque, NM. As life continued, they moved to Little Rock to be closer to family.

Thelma is survived by son, Richard (Kim), daughter; Janice (Steve Hata); grandson, Craig; step grandson, Sam Hoffman; and grandson-in-law, Mark West. She is also survived by two brothers, Lee (Cleta) and Floyd (Kay) and brother-in-law, Ray Winn. Additionally, numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends survive her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Bethel Mennonite Church; Sixth and Coffey; Hydro, OK 73048.